Indian Railways Implements QR Code-Enabled Vendor IDs and Digitally Traceable Food Packets

Indian Railways and IRCTC roll out QR code-enabled identity cards for vendors and digitally traceable food packets, modern Base Kitchens, CCTV monitoring, FSSAI certification, and surprise audits to ensure high-quality, hygienic meals for passengers.

New Delhi, March 19, 2026: Indian Railways is taking major steps to eliminate unauthorized vending and ensure verified onboard catering services for passengers. As informed by Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Lok Sabha, QR code-enabled identity cards and digitally traceable food packets are now mandatory for all authorized vendors and onboard staff.

The QR codes on identity cards display the vendor’s name, Aadhaar number, medical fitness, police verification details, and other relevant credentials, establishing authenticity and preventing unauthorized vendors from operating in trains. Similarly, QR codes on food packets indicate the Base Kitchen of origin, date of manufacturing, and other quality information, making food tracking and verification easier for passengers.

Measures to Ensure High-Quality, Hygienic Meals

Indian Railways and IRCTC have adopted multiple measures to improve food safety and hygiene, including:

Supply of meals from designated Base Kitchens.
Commissioning of modern Base Kitchens at key locations.
Installation of CCTV cameras in Base Kitchens for enhanced monitoring.
Use of branded raw materials including cooking oil, rice, atta, pulses, dairy products, and masalas.
Deployment of Food Safety Supervisors at Base Kitchens.
Deployment of onboard IRCTC supervisors to monitor catering operations.
Regular deep cleaning and pest control in Base Kitchens and Pantry Cars.
Mandatory FSSAI certification for all catering units.
Regular food sampling and third-party audits to ensure compliance with food safety norms.
Surprise inspections and customer satisfaction surveys to monitor service standards.
Continuous training programs for catering staff focusing on hygiene, personal grooming, communication, and courteous service.

Legal Backing and Enforcement

Unauthorized vending in passenger areas is strictly prohibited and punishable under Section 144 of the Railways Act, 1989. Regular inspections are conducted by Railway Protection Force (RPF) and designated officials, along with special drives to curb illegal vending.

Impact on Passengers

The initiative ensures passengers receive high-quality, hygienic meals, eliminates unverified vendors, and allows digital tracking of onboard catering services. It represents a significant step toward modernizing catering standards on Indian Railways.