Indian Railways Launches QR-Enabled IDs and Digital Food Tracking to Combat Illegal Vending
NEW DELHI, March 19, 2026 — In a major push to enhance passenger safety and meal quality, Indian Railways has introduced mandatory QR code-enabled identity cards for all authorized onboard catering staff.
Announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Lok Sabha, this digital shift aims to eliminate unauthorized hawking, which remains an offense under Section 144 of the Railways Act, 1989.
These high-tech IDs are linked to a database verifying the vendor’s name, Aadhaar details, medical fitness, and police clearance. To further ensure transparency, food packets now feature unique QR codes that allow passengers to trace the specific base kitchen and the exact date of manufacturing, ensuring that every meal served is verified and fresh.
Beyond digital tracking, the Ministry has implemented a comprehensive hygiene framework involving modern base kitchens equipped with CCTV monitoring and mandatory FSSAI certification.
To maintain high standards, food safety supervisors are now deployed at production sites, and third-party audits are conducted regularly to evaluate pantry car cleanliness.
The quality of meals is further guaranteed through the exclusive use of premium branded raw materials and periodic surprise inspections by Food Safety Officers.
These initiatives, combined with specialized training for catering staff in communication and personal grooming, represent a significant leap toward professionalizing onboard services and ensuring a secure, high-quality dining experience for rail travelers across the country.