Introduction
Jan Aahar Outlets In Indian Railway are an important initiative by Indian Railways to provide passengers with affordable, hygienic, and good-quality food options at major railway stations. These stalls, also known as Jan Aahar Stalls, serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals at budget-friendly prices. Started in 2009 at stations like Howrah, Bangalore, Chennai, and Secunderabad, the initiative has grown steadily, benefiting thousands of daily travelers across India.
The main aim of these outlets is to improve the food experience of passengers, ensure hygiene standards, and make meals accessible to all sections of society at pocket-friendly rates.
The Need for Jan Aahar Outlets In Indian Railway
Train travel has always been the most popular mode of transport in India. However, for years passengers struggled with either expensive or poor-quality food during their journeys. To solve this problem, Indian Railways launched Jan Aahar Outlets In Indian Railway to provide standard meals at fair prices.
By introducing these stalls, the Railways ensured that travelers no longer have to compromise between quality and affordability while dining at railway stations.
Food Prices at Jan Aahar Outlets
The Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) formed a committee to standardize food pricing and quality across these stalls. The meals at Jan Aahar Outlets In Indian Railway are priced between ₹5 and ₹50, making them one of the most budget-friendly food services available at stations.
Price List at Jan Aahar Outlets
| Sl. No. | Item | Rate (₹) |
| 1 | Standard Veg Breakfast | ₹25 |
| 2 | Standard Non-Veg Breakfast | ₹30 |
| 3 | Standard Veg Meal | ₹35 |
| 4 | Standard Non-Veg Meal | ₹40 |
| 5 | Tea/Coffee | ₹7 |
| 6 | Janata Meal | ₹15 |
| 7 | Rail Neer | ₹15 |
| 8 | Rice | ₹11 |
| 9 | Dal | ₹15 |
| 10 | Chola Puri | ₹31 |
| 11 | Omelet | ₹25 |
Distribution of Jan Aahar Outlets Across Indian Railways
Currently, 53 Jan Aahar Outlets In Indian Railway are operational across different zones, all managed by IRCTC through private contractors on a license fee basis.
Zone-Wise Distribution of Jan Aahar Outlets
| Sl. No. | Zonal Railway | No. of Units |
| 1 | CENTRAL | 8 |
| 2 | EAST COAST | 4 |
| 3 | EAST CENTRAL | 1 |
| 4 | EASTERN | 5 |
| 5 | NORTH EASTERN | 2 |
| 6 | NORTHEAST FRONTIER | 3 |
| 7 | NORTHERN | 4 |
| 8 | NORTH WESTERN | 2 |
| 9 | SOUTH CENTRAL | 2 |
| 10 | SOUTH EAST CENTRAL | 1 |
| 11 | SOUTH EASTERN | 3 |
| 12 | SOUTHERN | 4 |
| 13 | SOUTH WESTERN | 6 |
| 14 | WEST CENTRAL | 5 |
| 15 | WESTERN | 3 |
Key Highlights of Jan Aahar Outlets In Indian Railway
• Affordable meals priced between ₹5–₹50.
• Hygienic, freshly prepared vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
• Managed by IRCTC through licensed contractors.
• Present at 53 locations across different railway zones.
• Designed to cater to all sections of society.
Conclusion
Jan Aahar Outlets In Indian Railway are a remarkable initiative aimed at improving passenger convenience and ensuring affordable access to hygienic meals at railway stations. With their standardized menu, pocket-friendly rates, and growing presence across zones, these outlets have become a trusted food source for millions of travelers.
For passengers looking for quality food without overspending, Jan Aahar outlets are the perfect choice while traveling by train in India.