Travelling by train across India is one of the most common and budget-friendly ways to explore the country — but what about food on long journeys? Whether you’re on an overnight express or a cross-country trip, worrying about clean, affordable food is always on a passenger’s mind.

To clear this confusion and protect passengers from being overcharged by pantry staff or station vendors, the Ministry of Railways has now officially shared a detailed update on the price and menu of the standard vegetarian meal served on trains and at railway stations.

One Veg Thali — Two Prices: Know Where You’re Eating

Through its official social media handles, the Railway Ministry recently informed passengers that the cost of a standard veg meal (thali) has been fixed across the country.

• If you buy the veg thali at a station, you’ll pay Rs 70.

• If you order the same meal inside the train, it will cost you Rs 80.

So, you can decide where to buy it depending on your journey, convenience, and budget.

What’s Included in the Veg Thali?

The Indian Railways standard veg thali is designed to be wholesome, filling, and hygienic — at a price that doesn’t pinch your pocket. Here’s what you get in one meal:

✅ 2 parathas OR 4 rotis (100 grams total)
✅ Plain rice (150 grams)
✅ Dal or sambar (150 grams)
✅ One seasonal vegetable (100 grams)
✅ Curd (80 grams)
✅ One small packet of pickle (12 grams)

This menu is meant to provide balanced nutrition with carbs, protein, and probiotics — perfect for keeping passengers healthy on long journeys.

Why This Official Rate Matters for Passengers

This clear rate list empowers passengers with the right information, so they don’t get cheated. Many travelers have faced situations where pantry car staff or station vendors overcharge or serve smaller portions than what is promised.

If you know the exact price and what’s included in your meal, you can politely show the official rates if someone tries to ask for extra money or gives you less food than listed.

The Ministry has also reminded passengers: If anyone refuses to comply, you have every right to lodge a complaint. Indian Railways provides multiple ways to report such issues — you can call the railway helpline number or file a complaint through the online portal or app.

How This Helps Millions of Train Passengers

Every day, lakhs of people travel on Indian Railways — from students and daily wage workers to tourists and families. For many, especially those on long journeys spanning 2-3 days, affordable and good-quality food is a big concern.

By making the official food rates public, Indian Railways aims to:

✔️ Stop overcharging: Vendors and pantry workers must stick to the fixed rates.
✔️ Ensure quality: When prices and portions are clear, passengers get what they pay for.
✔️ Empower travelers: Now you can speak up confidently if you’re asked to pay more.
✔️ Save money: Passengers don’t need to buy overpriced food from unverified vendors on platforms.

What Should You Do If You’re Overcharged?

If you ever feel that the pantry staff or vendor is charging you more than the official rate or giving you less food than the standard portion, here’s what you can do:

1️⃣ Show them the official rate list shared by the Railways.
2️⃣ If they still refuse, take a photo or video for proof.
3️⃣ Call the Railway helpline or use the Indian Railways complaint system online.
4️⃣ Share your complaint on social media tagging the official handles — they often respond quickly.

Final Tips for Train Travelers

✔️ Know your rights: Save a screenshot of the official rate card on your phone before travelling.
✔️ Prefer authorized pantry cars: Buy food only from official railway catering services instead of random vendors.
✔️ Stay alert: Check that the food served matches the described portions and quality.

With this small step, Indian Railways is trying to make sure passengers enjoy safe, hygienic, and fairly priced meals during their journeys. So, next time you’re packing for a train trip, don’t stress about food — the Railway Ministry has your back!