IRCTC: Aadhaar Mandatory for Online Train Tickets, Extended Booking Window for Verified Users

• From January 5, Aadhaar verification is mandatory on IRCTC for benefits in online train ticket booking.
• Aadhaar-verified users can book tickets up to 60 days in advance; unverified users cannot book during this period.
• The online booking window for verified users is now 8 am to 4 pm, extended by 4 hours from the previous 8 am to 12 pm.
• Unverified users can only start booking tickets after 4 pm daily.
• Indian Railways implemented these changes to ensure genuine passengers get confirmed tickets and prevent misuse by brokers.

Why It Matters: Aadhaar verification on IRCTC is now crucial for early and extended online train ticket booking access.