Indian Railways has cleared the way for well-known single-brand food outlets, including McDonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, Baskin Robbins, Bikanerwala and Haldiram’s, to operate at railway stations, aligning station amenities more closely with airport standards.
Acting on a proposal from South Central Railway, the Railway Board has amended its catering policy to introduce a new category: the ‘Premium Brand Catering Outlet’. These outlets, company-owned or franchise-operated, will be allotted through the existing e-auction framework, with each licence valid for five years.
The move comes as stations across the country undergo redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), which aims to modernise infrastructure while reflecting local culture and architecture. With over 2.3 crore passengers travelling daily and more than 10 lakh meals already served through IRCTC, the inclusion of premium brands is expected to significantly enhance food choices and overall passenger experience.
Railway officials noted that demand and justification will determine where such outlets are introduced, ensuring placement at high-footfall or strategically relevant stations.
