In a significant move aimed at streamlining the process and preventing misuse, Indian Railways has officially rolled out a new One-Time Password (OTP) verification system for passengers booking last-minute Tatkal tickets. This change is designed to make the crucial last-minute booking facility more accessible and secure for genuine travelers.
How the New OTP-Based Tatkal System Works
Under the newly implemented framework, passengers attempting to reserve tickets through the Tatkal scheme will now be required to validate their booking by entering a One-Time Password. This OTP will be sent to the mobile number linked with the passenger's Indian Railways account at the time of the transaction.
The system mandates that the OTP received on the registered mobile device must be provided to complete the reservation process successfully. This step adds an essential layer of identity confirmation, ensuring that the person making the booking is the legitimate holder of the registered mobile number.
Objective: Curbing Malpractice and Enhancing User Convenience
The primary driver behind this technological intervention is to tackle the long-standing issue of touts and automated bots cornering Tatkal tickets, which often leaves common passengers stranded. By introducing this OTP checkpoint, the railways aim to create a more level playing field.
The new protocol was formally proposed and has now been activated to make the last-minute ticket-booking facility more convenient and fair for the average user. It seeks to block automated software (bots) from mass-booking tickets, thereby increasing the chances of genuine travelers securing a seat during peak travel times.
Implementation and Passenger Guidance
The announcement regarding this pivotal update was made public on 03 December 2025. As reported by journalist Ajith Athrady, the system is now active across booking channels, including the IRCTC website and mobile application.
Passengers are advised to ensure their mobile number is correctly updated and active in their IRCTC user profile well before attempting a Tatkal booking. Failure to enter the correct OTP within the stipulated time will result in the cancellation of the ongoing reservation attempt, and the ticket will be released back into the pool for other users.
This measure is part of a series of ongoing technological upgrades by Indian Railways to modernize its passenger services, improve security, and enhance the overall customer experience. The success of this OTP model for Tatkal could pave the way for its implementation in other booking categories in the future.
