Indian Railways Introduces QR-Based Vendor Verification and Digital Food Tracking to Curb Unauthorised Vending
Indian Railways Introduces QR-Based Vendor Verification and Digital Food Tracking to Curb Unauthorised Vending
New Delhi, March 19, 2026: Indian Railways has introduced a series of technology-driven measures, including QR code-enabled identity cards and digitally traceable food packets, to eliminate unauthorised vending and ensure safe, hygienic catering services for passengers.
According to a statement issued by PIB Delhi, unauthorised hawking and vending within railway premises is strictly prohibited and punishable under Section 144 of the Railways Act, 1989. Regular inspections are carried out by railway officials and the Railway Protection Force to prevent entry of illegal vendors, along with periodic special drives conducted by railway authorities and IRCTC.
To ensure authenticity of onboard catering staff, QR code-enabled identity cards have been made mandatory for all authorised vendors, helpers, and service personnel. These QR codes provide detailed verification, including the vendor’s name, Aadhaar number, medical fitness status, and police verification details.
Additionally, QR codes are now being placed on food packets, allowing passengers to access key information such as the source kitchen and manufacturing date, enhancing transparency and traceability.
Railways has also implemented several measures to improve food quality and hygiene standards. These include the supply of meals from designated base kitchens, development of modern kitchen facilities, and installation of CCTV cameras to monitor food preparation processes.
The use of branded and quality raw materials, deployment of food safety supervisors, and presence of onboard IRCTC supervisors have further strengthened monitoring. Regular deep cleaning, pest control, and mandatory certification from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India are also being enforced across catering units.
To maintain standards, authorities conduct routine food sampling, third-party audits, surprise inspections, and customer satisfaction surveys. Training programmes are also regularly organised by IRCTC to enhance staff skills in hygiene, service standards, and customer interaction.
The information was shared by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
