Eastern Railway has officially launched mini pantry services across 32 major Mail and Express trains to significantly enhance onboard catering for passengers. This initiative ensures that travelers can purchase breakfast and meals directly during their journey, reducing the need to rely on station vendors or external food sources. Key highlights of the rollout include:
• Mini pantry services are now operational on 32 major Mail and Express trains.
• Specific trains covered include the Kolkata-Jayanagar, Mithilanchal, and Janseva Express.
• All food services are provided by official contractors selected via a competitive tender process.
• Strict adherence to food quality and hygiene standards is mandatory for all contractors.
• Prices for all meals are strictly regulated and determined by the railway administration.
Focus on Quality and Hygiene
This move is part of a broader policy aimed at improving service delivery across the Indian Railways network. By integrating mini pantries, the railway administration aims to ensure that passengers have access to clean, hygienic, and affordable meals without having to step off the train at intermediate stations. The contractors appointed for these services are under strict instructions to maintain high hygiene standards, ensuring a better culinary experience for commuters.
Expanding Catering Horizons
This development builds upon recent technological and service upgrades within the railway ecosystem. In February 2026, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) introduced an ‘e-pantry’ service for 25 long-distance trains, including the Jayanagar-New Delhi and Jayanagar-Lokman Tilak Mumbai Express lines. This system allows passengers the added convenience of pre-booking specific meals for delivery directly to their seats at designated stations.
Furthermore, the railway is continuously testing new models to enhance passenger satisfaction. As of December 2025, IRCTC has been conducting Proof of Concept trials on select Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains to incorporate branded food and beverage providers into the railway network. These combined efforts reflect a comprehensive push by Indian Railways to modernize onboard catering, providing passengers with more reliable, high-quality, and convenient food options during their travels.