Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Offers Inclusive Catering for All Passengers
The Railway Board has made an important announcement about the new Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper Express. Catering services will come as part of the ticket fare for every passenger, regardless of their class of travel. This move aims to provide a seamless and comfortable journey on India's first sleeper version of the Vande Bharat train.
No Separate Charges for Meals and Refreshments
In a letter sent to all zonal railways on January 14, 2026, the Railway Board clarified the catering policy. The board stated clearly that catering services form an integral part of the train's offerings. Passengers will not need to pay extra for meals or beverages during their trip.
The fare table already includes these catering charges for all classes of service. This means travelers can enjoy their meals without worrying about additional costs. The Railway Board emphasized this point in its official communication.
Financial Arrangements Between Railways and IRCTC
The Railway Board has established a reimbursement system for the catering services. Each zonal railway will pay IRCTC at a fixed rate of Rs 0.40 per passenger per kilometer. This payment will come from the fares that passengers have already paid for their tickets.
GST will apply separately according to existing regulations. The reimbursement rate excludes GST, which means the actual amount transferred might be slightly higher depending on tax calculations.
IRCTC to Manage Catering Operations
IRCTC will take full responsibility for providing catering services on the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express. The organization will decide which meals to serve based on journey duration between different station pairs.
Passengers can expect services like:
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Morning tea
- Evening tea
IRCTC will create appropriate menus for each service while staying within the reimbursement limits set by the Railway Board. The organization must also share details about these catering services with both passengers and railway authorities.
Transforming Rail Travel Between East and Northeast
The Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper Express represents a significant upgrade in India's rail infrastructure. This train promises to revolutionize overnight travel between eastern and northeastern regions of the country.
By including catering in the base fare, the Railways aim to provide a premium experience comparable to air travel. Passengers can look forward to comfortable berths and quality meals without dealing with multiple payments or last-minute arrangements.
The train will operate between Howrah in West Bengal and Guwahati (Kamakhya) in Assam. This route connects two important economic and cultural centers while passing through scenic landscapes. The inclusive catering approach reflects the government's commitment to improving passenger comfort on long-distance routes.
Railway officials expect this service to set new standards for overnight train travel in India. The combination of modern sleeper coaches and included catering services creates a compelling package for travelers seeking convenience and value.
