MUMBAI, India, May 1 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202641025760 A) filed by Jain; Dr Murugan R; Tapur Deb; Arya Sinha; Angshuman Sarkar; Purti Jain; and Binita Thounaojam, Bangalore, Karnataka, on March 5, for 'adaptive train ticket reservation system.'
Inventor(s) include Jain; Dr Murugan R; Tapur Deb; Arya Sinha; Angshuman Sarkar; Purti Jain; and Binita Thounaojam.
The application for the patent was published on May 1, under issue no. 18/2026.
According to the abstract released by the Intellectual Property India: "The proposed Adaptive Train Ticket Reservation System is an innovative and inclusive digital framework designed to improve accessibility, security, and operational efficiency within Indian Railways. While the existing reservation platform enables large-scale ticket booking, it lacks structured provisions to ensure comfort for senior citizens and effective prevention of unauthorized seat occupation. This invention introduces a dualapproach model combining policy reform with technological integration. The first core component of the system ensures that passengers aged 65 years and above are automatically allocated lower berths during booking. In the current system, lower berth allocation depends mainly on availability, often resulting in elderly passengers being assigned middle or upper berths, which are physically difficult and unsafe. By embedding an age-based allocation rule within the reservation algorithm, the system guarantees comfort, safety, and dignity for elderly travelers. The second innovation is a biometric and Aadhaar-linked digital seat-locking mechanism. Each reserved seat is digitally mapped to the verified identity of the passenger. At the time of boarding, the seat unlocks only after authentication through QR code scanning, OTP verification, fingerprint recognition, or facial identification. This reduces disputes, prevents unauthorized occupation, and minimizes dependency on manual intervention by Train Ticket Examiners (TTEs). Backup verification through TTE override ensures smooth functioning in case of connectivity issues. The system operates on cloud infrastructure to ensure scalability across India's vast railway network. It integrates seamlessly with the IRCTC reservation database and allows real-time synchronization of booking data. Additionally, a structured incentive module encourages voluntary seat swaps by offering benefits such as discounts, meals, or Wi-Fi access. Aligned with Digital India and Accessible India initiatives, the invention promotes inclusive governance, technological advancement, and enhanced passenger trust. It is adaptable for future deployment across other transportation sectors such as metro systems, buses, and airlines."
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
