New Delhi: In a significant move to enhance onboard catering services and eliminate unauthorized vending, Indian Railways has mandated the issuance of QR code-enabled identity cards for authorized vendors. This initiative aims to ensure the authenticity of catering staff by linking their QR codes to essential details such as their name, Aadhaar number, medical fitness, and police verification. Additionally, QR codes will be placed on food packets to provide information about the kitchen and manufacturing dates.
To further improve food quality and safety, Indian Railways has implemented several measures, including the supply of meals from designated base kitchens, the establishment of modern base kitchens, and the installation of CCTV cameras for monitoring food preparation. The use of popular and branded raw materials, deployment of food safety supervisors, and regular inspections are also part of the initiative.
Mandatory certification from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for catering units has been enforced, along with regular food sampling and third-party audits to ensure compliance with food safety norms. Surprise inspections by food safety officers and ongoing training for catering staff are also being conducted to enhance service quality and hygiene standards.
This information was shared by Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, during a recent Lok Sabha session.
