Udan Yatri Cafe: Government's Affordable Airport Food Initiative Gains Traction
Airport dining has long been synonymous with exorbitant prices, where even basic items like samosas or tea carry hefty price tags that give travelers pause. However, a government-led initiative is changing that narrative by offering affordable options starting at just Rs 20.
What is the Udan Yatri Cafe?
Launched by the Government of India in March 2025, the Udan Yatri Cafe is a nationwide chain established to enhance passenger facilities at airports across the country. Its primary objective is to provide quality food at accessible prices, making airport dining more affordable for all travelers. According to a PIB report, this initiative forms part of a broader strategy to modernize airport infrastructure while ensuring air travel remains viable for a wider demographic.
The Viral Moment That Put It in the Spotlight
Recently, a clip shared on Instagram by IIT Bombay alumnus Piyush Tripathi catapulted the cafe into the limelight. In the video, Tripathi is seen traveling with his wife through an airport when he casually asks if she would like a samosa. He then leads her to the Udan Yatri Cafe, where they purchase two cups of tea and samosas at remarkably low prices.
The playful banter that follows has captured public attention. When Tripathi asks his wife, "Kiski wajah se hua hai ye? (Because of whom has this happened?)", she promptly replies, "Raghav Chadha." Further questioned about her opinion of Chadha, she smiles and calls him "handsome." The post's caption highlighted the stark contrast between expectations of expensive airport food and the reality of Rs 20 samosas and Rs 10 tea, concluding with "Fact check passed."
Raghav Chadha's Parliamentary Intervention
The connection to Aam Aadmi Party MP Raghav Chadha stems from his intervention during the Winter Session of Parliament in 2024. Chadha raised concerns about the inflated prices of basic necessities at airports, questioning why water bottles cost Rs 100 and tea is priced between Rs 200-250. He advocated for the establishment of affordable canteens at airports to alleviate this burden on travelers.
Social Media Reactions and Celebrity Responses
The viral video has garnered significant traction on social media platforms. Raghav Chadha himself responded to the clip with a lighthearted comment: "Haha, hope you enjoyed the samosa!" Adding to the buzz, his wife, actor Parineeti Chopra, chimed in on the "handsome" remark, writing, "I totally agree."
Broader Implications and Public Reception
The Udan Yatri Cafe represents a significant step toward democratizing airport amenities. By offering snacks at prices as low as Rs 20, it addresses long-standing grievances about the cost of travel. The initiative not only provides economic relief to passengers but also aligns with broader goals of infrastructure modernization and inclusive air travel.
The viral moment underscores how public figures and social media can amplify government initiatives, bringing them to the forefront of public consciousness. As more travelers become aware of these affordable options, the cafe is poised to become a staple in airport experiences across India.
