Latest IRCTC train ticket rules: Aadhaar-authenticated users to get special booking benefit for general ticket reservation

Indian Railways is implementing significant changes for train ticket bookings. Effective January 12, 2026, only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book general reserved tickets on the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) opening day. This follows mandatory Aadhaar authentication for Tatkal tickets starting July 1, 2025.