Indian Railways, in partnership with the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), has introduced a budget meal priced at just ₹15—and it’s now making waves on social media, drawing a mix of praise and criticism.
Launched last year, the initiative aims to offer affordable, hygienic, and nutritious food to passengers, especially those traveling in general class coaches. The move is part of Railways’ effort to make travel more comfortable for all segments by providing low-cost meal options during journeys.
The budget-friendly ‘Janata Khana’ meal consists of seven pooris accompanied by a serving of bhaji and a small helping of pickle. For an additional Rs 5, passengers can opt for a combo meal priced at Rs 20, which includes the same food items along with a 300ml bottle of water.
A video showcasing this meal was posted on X (previously known as Twitter) and has since amassed over 800,000 views, sparking a variety of responses from the public.
Watch the video below:
How Internet Reacted To Janata Meal
Several social media users shared a positive response on the initiative, praising the Indian Railways for providing quality economic meals for convenience of passengers.
“Looks good honestly in this price, should be available on every railway station,” one user wrote. “Good for people who run short on time, have less money available or cannot afford food otherwise,” said another.
“A full meal for just Rs 15 – now that’s what public service should look like! Janata Khana is a small price with a big impact, ensuring no one goes hungry on the move. Kudos to Indian Railways for putting dignity on a plate,” a third user commented on the post.
“Good initiative! We need to understand that trains are meant for travel, they are not a 5 star culinary restaurants on wheels. If you’re that much concerned about food, bring it from your own home,” said another.
“This is very good – I have eaten janata meal before it is tasty and fills your stomach fully. Should be available on all routes though,” one user shared.
“I think it’s pretty decent for the price. Anything more than that , it would actually need to be subsidized. You wouldn’t get this much for 15 bucks at even the worst roadside stall,” another user wrote.
However, some social media users also criticised the janata meal, saying that the food looks of poor quality.
“There is no problem with the quantity of food in Indian Railways; the real problem is with the quality,” one user said. “Don’t know why even give this thing. how is this sh*t healthy by any means, let alone hygenic and fresh,” another commented.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com