Minister Confirms QR Code Innovations for Verified Catering in Indian Railways
Synopsis
Discover how QR code technology is transforming catering services in Indian Railways, ensuring verified vendors and high-quality meals for passengers. This innovative approach tackles unauthorized vending and elevates food safety standards.
Key Takeaways
QR code technology is now mandatory for catering vendors in Indian Railways.
The initiative aims to eliminate unauthorized vending and enhance food safety.
Food packets are now digitally traceable through QR codes .
Regular training is provided to improve catering staff skills.
Compliance with FSSAI norms is essential for all catering units.
New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) The implementation of QR code-enabled identity cards and digitally traceable food packets within the Indian Railways has effectively eradicated unauthorized vending and ensured that rail passengers receive verified catering services, as reported to Parliament on Thursday.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the issuance of QR code-enabled Identity Cards for individual vendors, helpers, and staff responsible for onboard catering services is now mandatory, confirming the identity of authorized vendors in trains.
“This QR code is designed to verify the authenticity of the staff by showing details such as the vendor’s name, Aadhaar number, medical fitness, and police verification information,” the minister elaborated. Additional measures to combat unauthorized vending include QR codes on food packets, which provide information about the kitchen name and manufacturing date.
To enhance quality, hygiene, and food safety, several initiatives have been undertaken, such as sourcing meals from designated base kitchens, establishing modern base kitchens in selected locations, and installing CCTV cameras in these kitchens for improved monitoring of food preparation. The selection of popular and branded raw materials—including cooking oil, flour, rice, pulses, spices, paneer, and dairy products—is also part of the food production process. Furthermore, Food Safety Supervisors are deployed at base kitchens to oversee food safety and hygiene practices.
Compliance with Food Safety Norms has become obligatory, with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) certification required from designated Food Safety Officers at each catering unit.
Additionally, regular food sampling is conducted as part of the inspection and monitoring processes to guarantee food quality on trains. A third-party audit evaluates the hygiene and quality of food in pantry cars and base kitchens, accompanied by customer satisfaction surveys, according to the minister.
IRCTC is also conducting ongoing training for catering staff to improve their skills, particularly in customer service.
Point of View
The initiative underscores a commitment to combating unauthorized vending and improving overall service standards.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of QR code-enabled identity cards in Indian Railways?
The QR code-enabled identity cards are designed to verify the authenticity of authorized vendors and staff managing onboard catering services.
How do QR codes improve food safety in trains?
QR codes on food packets provide traceability by displaying the kitchen name and manufacturing date, ensuring quality and safety.
What measures are in place to monitor food hygiene in Indian Railways?
CCTV cameras in base kitchens, deployment of Food Safety Supervisors, and regular food sampling are established to monitor food hygiene.
Is FSSAI certification required for catering units in Indian Railways?
Yes, FSSAI certification from designated Food Safety Officers is mandatory for compliance with Food Safety Norms.
What training is provided to catering staff in Indian Railways?
IRCTC conducts regular training sessions to enhance the skills of catering staff, focusing on customer service.
