Indian Railways Imposes Rs 5.13 Crore Fine, for Food Quality and Hygiene Violations
Indian Railways serve about 58 cr meals every year on an average. About only 0.0008% food quality related complaints are received on average. Based on complaints during the last three years, appropriate penal actions have been taken by IRCTC. Such actions include imposition of fines amounting to Rs 5.13 crore, issuance of 54 show-cause notices, 06 termination of contracts and debarment of licensees for food quality and hygiene violations. The list of debarred licensees is published on the IRCTC’s website.
Regular and surprise inspections are conducted by Railway/IRCTC officials, including Food Safety Officers, to ensure quality, hygiene, safety and regulatory compliance. These inspections cover key aspects such as food safety, staff deployment, equipment maintenance, cleanliness and adherence to prescribed standards while promoting best practices in food handling, storage and preparation.
This information was provided by the Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.(UPDATED ON 7TH AUGUST 2026)
