Indian Railways Tightens Tatkal Rules: OTP Now Mandatory at Counters

  Inside the announcement  
According to Financial Express, IndiaTV News, ZeeBiz, and News18, the OTP system was initially tested on select trains in November 2025 and later expanded to 52 services. Following positive feedback, the Ministry of Railways has mandated OTP checks for all Tatkal counter bookings. This reform mirrors the online Tatkal process, where Aadhaar-linked OTP verification already exists, and is expected to reduce fraudulent reservations and blocked seats.  

Notable updates  
• OTP verification now mandatory for Tatkal tickets booked at reservation counters nationwide  
• Passengers must provide a valid mobile number and confirm OTP before ticket issuance  
• Pilot project began in November 2025, expanded to 52 trains, now rolled out nationwide  
• Designed to block touts and prevent misuse of Tatkal quota  
• Similar OTP-based checks already active for online Tatkal bookings  

Major takeaway  
By extending OTP verification to counter bookings, Indian Railways strengthens its crackdown on ticketing malpractice. The initiative ensures Tatkal tickets reach genuine passengers, reinforcing transparency and fairness in one of India’s most in-demand travel services.  

Sources: Financial Express, IndiaTV News, ZeeBiz, News18