Breaking from speculation, Indian Railways has confirmed no obligation for halal certification on non-vegetarian train foods. Activist Priyank Kanungo’s spotlight on the matter prompted this official denial, reassuring a diverse ridership.
Kanungo’s viral thread exposed halal logos on meal trays, sparking debates on whether public entities should endorse religious certifications. Railways responded swiftly: ‘No such requirement exists; catering complies solely with FSSAI and hygiene protocols.’
This clarification dispels myths in a polarized discourse. Halal, meaning ‘permissible’ in Arabic, certifies Sharia-compliant preparation but isn’t legally binding for government services. Railways stresses multi-faith inclusivity through neutral standards.
Applauding the move, Kanungo stated it’s ‘a win for secular public services.’ He pressed for audits in other domains like defense and education to eliminate similar practices.
Behind the scenes, catering giant IRCTC manages 10,000+ daily meals via vendor empanelment. Non-veg, popular on overnight trains, features regional delights sans extra certifications, optimizing costs and supply chains.
Innovations abound: static pantries evolve into smart vending, e-catering booms with 20% yearly growth. Passenger advisories now emphasize choices via IRCTC apps, blending tradition with tech.
Voices from the tracks vary—some seek origin transparency, others prioritize affordability. Railways commits to evolving based on inputs, eyeing sustainable sourcing amid climate concerns.
This saga highlights scrutiny’s power in modern India. As rails connect dreams, clear policies ensure every bite is controversy-free, fueling journeys ahead.