Indian Railways to Introduce Premium Branded Food Outlets at Major Stations, Elevating Passenger Experience
Indian Railways to Introduce Premium Branded Food Outlets at Major Stations, Elevating Passenger Experience
Indian Railways is gearing up to offer travelers an enhanced culinary experience at major stations across the country by introducing popular food chains such as McDonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, Baskin Robbins, Haldiram’s, and Bikanerwala. This comes as part of a significant update to the Railway Board’s catering policy, which now includes a new category called ‘Premium Branded Outlets.’
Previously, under the 2017 Catering Policy, passengers had access only to limited options such as tea stalls, milk bars, and juice bars providing beverages, light snacks, and refreshments. The new policy aims to broaden these options, allowing full-scale branded restaurants to operate directly on platforms, giving commuters access to a wider and higher-quality food selection.
While travelers could already order from these brands via IRCTC’s e-catering service for delivery to their train seats, the new system ensures that the same popular menus will soon be available right on station premises. Railway officials highlight that this move is expected to improve food quality and variety, making train journeys more comfortable and enjoyable for millions of passengers daily. The tendering and e-auction process for the first wave of premium outlets is set to commence shortly.
Access to Clean Drinking Water at Raebareli Junction
In other passenger-focused developments, Raebareli Junction is set to provide reliable, clean drinking water on all five of its platforms as well as inside train coaches. The station has received approval for the installation of new drinking water pipelines along the tracks, with work expected to begin soon, ensuring better facilities for commuters.
How Space for Premium Outlets Will Be Allotted
According to a circular issued on 13 November 2025, these premium food outlets will be allocated strictly through the existing e-auction system. No direct allotments or nominations will be permitted. Licences for these outlets will have a tenure of five years, consistent with the term currently followed for other catering stalls. Financial terms, including the Minimum Licence Fee, will remain in line with the existing policy guidelines.
Conditions for Setting Up Outlets
Railway zones will be able to approve premium-branded outlets only in locations with adequate passenger demand and available space. The introduction of these outlets will not affect the quotas reserved for SC, ST, OBC communities, freedom fighters, or families displaced due to railway land acquisition. Zones will carefully evaluate footfall, station layout, and available commercial space before inviting bids to ensure that the rollout is efficient and beneficial.
Background and Policy Rationale
The decision stems from a proposal by the South Central Railway, which recommended the inclusion of well-known food chains at railway stations. The Railway Board has now incorporated this suggestion into the updated catering policy, creating a structured system for premium-brand stalls while keeping the existing quota-based categories intact.
Integration with Station Redevelopment
Over 1,200 railway stations across India are undergoing redevelopment in various phases. Major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad are expanding commercial spaces, creating opportunities for single-brand outlets. Stations with higher daily passenger traffic are likely to be prioritized under the new guidelines, ensuring maximum utilization of these premium facilities.
Impact on Existing Catering Services
Currently, IRCTC serves over 10 lakh meals every day across the railway network. The introduction of premium branded outlets will complement existing catering services, providing an additional range of food options at larger stations where demand justifies the expansion.
