What is the Advance Reservation Period (ARP)?
The ARP refers to the period during which train tickets become available for advance booking. Demand is usually highest on the first day, especially for long-distance and popular routes.
How does the new system work?
On the first day of ARP, only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book general reserved tickets online through the IRCTC website or mobile app.
These users get exclusive access from 8 am to midnight on that day.
Non-Aadhaar users can still book tickets online from the next day onwards, subject to availability.
Does this affect Tatkal or offline bookings?
The rule applies only to online bookings for general reserved tickets on the first ARP day.
PRS counter bookings at railway stations remain unchanged and can be done with valid identification.
Tatkal bookings were already limited to Aadhaar-authenticated users earlier.
Why has Railways introduced this change?
Railway authorities say the move is aimed at curbing misuse by agents and automated booking tools, which often corner seats within minutes of ticket opening.
Aadhaar authentication is intended to prioritise genuine individual passengers during peak booking windows.
What passengers should do?
Passengers who frequently book tickets as soon as reservations open are advised to link and authenticate their Aadhaar with their IRCTC account to avoid disruption under the new rule.
