Passengers traveling in premium trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, and Vande Bharat can get free food and refreshments under specific conditions. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has set clear rules for this facility. If your train is running late, you might be eligible for this service.
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When do passengers get free food in premium trains?
According to IRCTC guidelines, free meals and refreshments are provided if premium trains are delayed by two hours or more from their scheduled time. This rule has been in place since August 11, 2011. For Vande Bharat Express, this facility is available to passengers who opted for the meal service while booking their tickets.
What items are included in the free meal service?
The type of food provided depends on the timing of the delay. The following items are generally served to the passengers:
| Meal Time | Items Provided |
|---|---|
| Tea/Coffee Time | Tea or coffee served with biscuits |
| Breakfast/Evening Snacks | 4 slices of white or brown bread, butter, 200ml fruit drink, tea or coffee |
| Lunch/Dinner | Rice with Chhole, Rajma or Dal and pickle, or 7 Puris with mixed vegetable curry |
Who manages these catering rules?
The IRCTC manages the provision and distribution of these meals. The Ministry of Railways and the Railway Board are responsible for making the policies. Recent updates in November 2023 focused on improving food quality, hygiene, and allowing premium brands to open outlets at railway stations to better serve passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which trains are covered under the free meal rule during delays?
This rule applies to premium trains including Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, and Vande Bharat Express.
What is the minimum delay required to claim free food?
The train must be delayed by two hours or more from its scheduled time to qualify for free meals and refreshments.