Indian Railways has recently made major changes in the rules of train ticket booking. The purpose of these changes is to provide better convenience to the passengers and make the ticket booking process more efficient. If you are also planning a train journey and not getting a confirmed ticket, then this article is for you. Here we will tell you in detail about IRCTC New Rules and 100% confirmed tickets.
Indian Railway New Rules of Indian Railways
Indian Railways has reduced the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) from 120 days to 60 days. This change has come into force from 1 November 2024. In addition, waiting tickets and Tatkal ticket booking rules have also been improved so that passengers can increase the chances of getting confirmed tickets.
A quick observation of new rules
| Rule | Description |
| Advance reservation period | Reduced from 120 days to 60 days |
| Waiting ticket system | Waiting ticket now valid only in general coach |
| Tatkal ticket booking time | AC Class: 10 am, Non-AC Class: 11 am |
| Refund policy | Refund only on the cancellation of train or delay of more than 3 hours |
| AI using technology | Use of AI to improve seat allocation process |
| ARP for foreign tourists | 365 day advance booking facility |
Advance Reservation Period (ARP) change
Indian Railways has reduced the Advance Reservation Period to only 60 days. This change has been made to make a better plan for passengers and reduce the problem of “no-show”.
Benefits of this change:
- Ease of planning travel.
- The problem of waiting list will be reduced.
- The actual passenger demand can be better estimated.
NO Waiting Ticket Rule on waiting tickets
According to the new rules, which came into force from 1 January 2025, waiting tickets will now be valid only in general coaches. Passengers with waiting tickets in reservation or AC coaches will not be allowed to travel.
Main point:
- Passengers with waiting tickets can travel in general coaches.
- Traveling in reservation coach will be fined:
- AC Coach: ₹ 440 + fare up to the next station.
- Sleeper Coach: ₹ 250 + fare up to the next station.
Tatkal Ticket Booking
Tatkal ticket booking process has also been organized more. Now passengers can book Tatkal tickets for AC class at 10 am and Non-C class from 11 am.
New refund policy:
- Refund will not be available on confirmed Tatkal tickets.
- Refund can be taken if the train is canceled or delays more than 3 hours.
AI Technology in Ticket Booking)
Indian Railways has started using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to improve its seat allocation process. This technique analyzes the information of passengers and accurately estimates the availability of seats.
Benefits of AI Technology:
- The seat allocation process for weightlisted passengers will be speeded up.
- Transparency in seat allocation will increase.
Tips to get confirm ticket
If you are getting a frequent waiting list, then the tips below can help you:
- Book up advance: Book tickets exactly 60 days before the date of your journey.
- Choose immediate option: Login on immediate booking time and book tickets quickly.
- Select low crowded trains: Try to travel in low crowded trains instead of popular trains.
- Take AI based suggestions: Use AI based seat tips on IRCTC website or app.
- Keep your journey flexible: plan to travel on off-pack time or days.
The purpose of new rules
Indian Railways has implemented these reforms keeping in mind the following objectives:
- Providing better convenience to passengers.
- To curb unauthorized passengers and brokers.
- Reducing congestion in trains.
- Increasing railway income.
Rejuvenation
This article is based on new rules and procedures declared by Indian Railways. The information given here is based on real facts and its purpose is to make the passengers aware. Please note that it is mandatory for all passengers to follow these rules.
If you are also planning your journey, then take care of these rules so that you can get a confirmed ticket.
