Show Quick Read Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroomIndian Railways has overhauled the Tatkal ticket booking system in 2026 to tackle long-standing issues of unfair access, automated bookings and agent dominance. Under the new rules, passengers must complete full account and identity verification before booking, and enhanced technical measures aim to curb abuse by bots and unauthorised intermediaries. Mandatory Verification To Curb MisuseOne of the most significant changes under the 2026 Tatkal rules is compulsory account verification. Only IRCTC users with fully verified accounts, linked to valid identification such as Aadhaar, will now be able to book Tatkal tickets. Overall, the revamped system aims to restore fairness and trust in the Tatkal booking process, making last-minute travel planning more equitable for everyday passengers.