The Indian Railways, in collaboration with the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation, introduced a pocket-friendly meal priced at just Rs 15, which has recently sparked widespread discussion on social media, drawing mixed reactions.

The initiative, launched last year, was meant to give passengers travelling in general class coaches and economic meal option, by providing them with nutritious and hygienic food options at minimal cost during their journey. 

The budget-friendly ‘Janata Khana’ meal consists of seven pooris accompanied by a serving of bhaji and a small helping of pickle. For an additional Rs 5, passengers can opt for a combo meal priced at Rs 20, which includes the same food items along with a 300ml bottle of water. 

A video showcasing this meal was posted on X (previously known as Twitter) and has since amassed over 800,000 views, sparking a variety of responses from the public.

Watch the video below: 

🚨 Janata Khana: Indian Railways’ Affordable Meal Scheme for Just ₹15. 🚆🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/yy92S2FcpG

— gems of world (@iit_Dholkpur) June 27, 2025

How Internet Reacted To Janata Meal

Several social media users shared a positive response on the initiative, praising the Indian Railways for providing quality economic meals for convenience of passengers. 

“Looks good honestly in this price, should be available on every railway station,” one user wrote. “Good for people who run short on time, have less money available or cannot afford food otherwise,” said another. 

“A full meal for just Rs 15 – now that’s what public service should look like! Janata Khana is a small price with a big impact, ensuring no one goes hungry on the move. Kudos to Indian Railways for putting dignity on a plate,” a third user commented on the post. 

“Good initiative! We need to understand that trains are meant for travel, they are not a 5 star culinary restaurants on wheels. If you’re that much concerned about food, bring it from your own home,” said another.

“This is very good – I have eaten janata meal before it is tasty and fills your stomach fully. Should be available on all routes though,” one user shared. 

“I think it’s pretty decent for the price. Anything more than that , it would actually need to be subsidized. You wouldn’t get this much for 15 bucks at even the worst roadside stall,” another user wrote. 

However, some social media users also criticised the janata meal, saying that the food looks of poor quality. 

“There is no problem with the quantity of food in Indian Railways; the real problem is with the quality,” one user said. “Don’t know why even give this thing. how is this sh*t healthy by any means, let alone hygenic and fresh,” another commented.