IRCTC's Optional Meal Policy Creates Waves of Confusion
A recent policy shift by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has left many train passengers scratching their heads. In the post-Covid era, Indian Railways made meals an optional add-on for travelers booking tickets online. While intended to offer convenience, this move has inadvertently created significant confusion, particularly concerning the availability of complimentary items like 'Rail Neer' water.
What is the 'No Food' Option?
When passengers now book their train tickets through the IRCTC portal or app, they are presented with a clear choice. They can actively select whether they wish to include meals for their journey. This system was designed to cater to diverse passenger needs, allowing those who prefer to carry their own food or make other arrangements to opt-out of the standard meal service. The change, which was fully implemented after the Covid-19 pandemic, aims to reduce waste and personalize the travel experience. Passengers are expected to make this decision at the time of booking, shaping their journey according to their personal convenience.
The Core of the Passenger Confusion
The primary issue arises from a misunderstanding of what the 'no food' option entails. Many passengers are unsure if selecting 'no food' means they will forgo only the cooked meal or if it also excludes other complimentary services traditionally associated with meal bookings. A major point of contention is the availability of 'Rail Neer', the packaged drinking water provided by Indian Railways. This confusion was highlighted in a report dated 19 November 2025, indicating that the new system, while well-intentioned, has not been communicated with absolute clarity to the traveling public.
Looking Ahead: Clarity Needed for Smoother Journeys
The confusion surrounding the IRCTC meal policy underscores a larger need for transparent communication from service providers. For a system used by millions of Indians daily, even a small ambiguity can lead to widespread inconvenience. As Indian Railways continues to digitize and streamline its services, ensuring that passengers have a crystal-clear understanding of what their selections include—and exclude—is paramount. The goal remains to provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience, free from last-minute surprises about basic amenities like food and water.
