Indian Railways is rolling out a new plan to serve regional cuisines based on specific train routes. This effort, announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, aims to enhance the on-board dining experience and showcase India’s diverse culinary traditions. Many travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with the current food options, often finding them repetitive. This change seeks to address that by introducing flavors that truly reflect the areas passengers are traveling through.
The initiative kicked off with a pilot program in Southern Railways. This program responds to feedback from passengers who wanted more South Indian dishes, particularly on Tamil Nadu’s Vande Bharat trains. Travelers will now be able to enjoy beloved local foods like idlis, dosas, sambhar, and even filter coffee. It’s all about making the train journey feel more connected to the region.
Through the revamped catering system, managed by IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation), you’ll find customizable menus. These will showcase regional specialties and seasonal treats, making meals not just about sustenance, but also about celebrating local culture. Expect to see offerings from states like Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, and Bengal, all tailored to the train routes.
In addition to regional dishes, the menu will include dietary-friendly options like diabetic meals, baby food, and low-calorie meals. Passengers can choose individual items or branded food at fair prices, ensuring everyone finds something that suits their taste. Premium trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, and Vande Bharat Express will feature these enhanced menus, while budget-friendly Janta Meals remain available for those watching their wallets.
This commitment to regional flavors is expected to significantly boost passenger satisfaction. When travelers enjoy food that resonates with them, it creates a strong connection to the place they’re passing through. Furthermore, this initiative helps to bridge communication gaps between passengers and pantry staff by ensuring that culturally relevant meals are provided.
Economically, the program is designed to support local food producers and caterers. By sourcing ingredients from local suppliers, it aligns with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, promoting local businesses and reducing reliance on centralized suppliers.
However, there are hurdles to overcome. Keeping food fresh and ensuring timely delivery across various routes is crucial. IRCTC is working on safeguards to maintain quality and prevent issues like shortages or subpar products.
In recent years, the demand for diverse and high-quality food options in public transport has grown. In a 2022 survey, 78% of passengers expressed a desire for more variety in their on-board meals. As Indian Railways moves forward with this initiative, it reflects a broader trend towards enhancing customer experience in the travel sector.
This exciting change not only aims to elevate your journey but also celebrates the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine along the tracks. Get ready for a flavorful ride!
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Source linkIndian Railways regional cuisine,Ashwini Vaishnaw announcement,IRCTC catering updates
