Voice Command Ticket Booking Launched by IRCTC via AskDISHA 2.0 – Book Trains Using Just Your Voice
Indian Railways has introduced a new wave of digital transformation for its passengers. Now, you no longer need to stand in long queues or repeatedly type on your mobile or computer to book a train ticket. The IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) has launched voice command ticket booking in its AI-powered chatbot AskDISHA 2.0. This feature was launched on 30 May 2025 and is now fully available on the IRCTC website and mobile app. In this article, we’ll explain how voice command ticket booking works, its benefits, and how it is making train travel more accessible in India.
What is Voice Command Ticket Booking?
Voice command ticket booking is a technology that allows users to book train tickets using voice instructions. AskDISHA 2.0, IRCTC’s AI-powered chatbot, can now understand spoken commands and provide services like ticket booking, cancellation, refund status, and TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt) queries. This feature is especially helpful for those less comfortable with technology—such as the elderly, less educated individuals, or those who find typing difficult.
AskDISHA 2.0 has been developed in collaboration with CoRover.ai. It can communicate in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, and more. This means users can now use voice command ticket booking in their native language, making travel planning much easier.
How to Use Voice Command Ticket Booking?
The process of voice command ticket booking is simple and user-friendly. Follow these steps:
- Open the IRCTC App or Website: Download the IRCTC Rail Connect app on your smartphone or visit www.irctc.co.in.
- Activate AskDISHA 2.0: Look for the AskDISHA icon on the app or website. Click the microphone icon to enable voice mode.
- Give Voice Commands: Say, “AskDISHA, book my ticket.” The chatbot will ask for travel details such as:
- Source and destination stations
- Date of travel
- Class (Sleeper, AC 3 Tier, AC 2 Tier, etc.)
- Select Train: AskDISHA will show a list of available trains. Choose your preferred train and seat.
- OTP Verification: Verify your identity through an OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Make Payment: Pay via UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking. Your ticket will be booked instantly.
Examples:
- To cancel a ticket: “AskDISHA, cancel my ticket”
- To check refund status: “AskDISHA, check my refund status”
- For train availability: “AskDISHA, show train availability”
This system is so easy that anyone—whether tech-savvy or not—can use it without hassle.
Benefits of Voice Command Ticket Booking
Voice command ticket booking has made life significantly easier for passengers. Key benefits include:
- No Need to Type: You don’t have to fill lengthy forms or type details. Just speak your commands and get your ticket.
- Support in Regional Languages: Available in many Indian languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, etc., making it highly beneficial for rural travellers.
- Secure and Fast: With OTP verification, the process is secure and provides instant results.
- Inclusive for All: This feature is a boon for those who are less literate, elderly, or not familiar with digital tools.
- Reduces Load on Call Centres and Ticket Counters: No more waiting in queues or holding calls for customer support.
Indian Railways’ Digital Transformation
Indian Railways is one of the largest and busiest railway networks in the world, operating over 70 lakh (7 million) passenger journeys and more than 7,000 trains daily across 108,000+ km of track. To enhance this vast system, Indian Railways continues to adopt digital technologies.
Voice command ticket booking via AskDISHA 2.0 marks a major leap in this direction. IRCTC has already rolled out several digital initiatives, including:
- Online ticket booking
- e-Catering (online food booking in trains)
- Real-time train tracking
AskDISHA 2.0 not only enhances passenger convenience but also supports the “Digital India” mission by bridging rural and urban digital divides.
Technical Highlights of AskDISHA 2.0
Developed in partnership with CoRover.ai, AskDISHA 2.0 features several advanced capabilities:
- Voice Recognition: Quickly understands spoken commands and responds accurately.
- Multilingual Support: Engages users in multiple Indian languages.
- AI and NLP (Natural Language Processing): Delivers human-like conversational experience using cutting-edge AI.
- Real-Time Data: Offers up-to-date info on train availability, refund status, etc.
- Cloud-Based System: Ensures fast and seamless interaction via cloud technology.
The voice command ticket booking capability stands out as AskDISHA’s most powerful feature, setting it apart from other booking platforms.
Future Updates in Voice Command Ticket Booking
IRCTC has hinted at upcoming enhancements for voice command ticket booking. Potential future upgrades include:
- Real-Time Train Tracking via Voice: Speak and get live train status, platform numbers, delays, etc.
- Automated Travel Planning: AskDISHA could suggest optimal routes and trains for your journey.
- Support for More Languages: Expanding regional language options.
- Answering Complex Queries: Improved AI to handle more detailed and complex questions.
Voice Command Booking vs Other Platforms
While platforms like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, and Paytm also offer train ticket bookings, voice command ticket booking via AskDISHA 2.0 offers clear advantages:
- Voice Control: Currently not available on most third-party platforms.
- Regional Language Support: AskDISHA’s multilingual capability is more suited to Indian users.
- Direct IRCTC Integration: As the official chatbot, AskDISHA provides more accurate and reliable information.
- Free of Cost: Voice command booking is freely available on IRCTC’s official platforms.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite its advantages, voice command ticket booking faces some challenges:
- Internet Connectivity: Poor connectivity in rural areas can affect functionality.
Solution: IRCTC should consider offline or low-bandwidth support. - Voice Recognition Accuracy: Accents and background noise can impact recognition.
Solution: Further AI training and integration of noise cancellation technology. - Lack of Awareness: Many travellers are unaware of this feature.
Solution: IRCTC should launch awareness campaigns via social media, TV, and railway stations.
Voice Command Ticket Booking and Digital India
Voice command ticket booking is a shining example of the “Digital India” initiative. It empowers both urban and rural travellers, especially those who are less comfortable with technology. With AskDISHA 2.0, Indian Railways has made a significant effort to make technology accessible to everyone.
By enabling seamless ticket booking through voice in multiple Indian languages, this innovation represents a transformative leap toward inclusive and efficient digital governance.
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