IRCTC Removes ‘No Food’ Option? Passengers Struggle to Book Tickets Without Meals
Sangbad Ekalavya Digital Desk | Kolkata | 18 October 2025
Booking a train ticket without opting for onboard meals has suddenly become a challenge for Indian Railways passengers. The IRCTC app and website, which previously offered a clear ‘No Food’ option during ticket booking, now seem to have quietly removed or relocated it—leaving many travelers confused and frustrated.
Several passengers recently reported that while booking tickets—especially for premium trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Duronto—they couldn’t find the ‘No Food’ option. With travel dates fixed and leaves approved, many are now wondering: must they pay for meals they don’t want to consume?
This isn’t an isolated glitch. The issue has surfaced across multiple bookings, prompting concerns about transparency and passenger choice.
Back in 2017, IRCTC introduced the ‘No Food’ option after repeated complaints about the quality of meals served on elite trains. Passengers were unwilling to pay for substandard food and demanded the right to opt out. The feature allowed travelers to choose between vegetarian, non-vegetarian, Jain meals—or no meal at all.
But now, that freedom appears to be compromised.
When contacted, IRCTC AGM (Hospitality) Virendra Bhatti clarified, “The option still exists—it’s just been moved.” Upon further inspection, the ‘No Food’ checkbox is now tucked away under additional preferences like ‘Auto Upgrade’ and ‘Book only if confirmed seat is available’. It’s no longer visible alongside meal preferences, making it easy to miss.
Another major change: earlier, passengers under the same PNR could individually choose whether to take meals. Now, it’s all or nothing—either everyone gets food, or no one does. This has added to the confusion, especially for group travelers with mixed preferences.
Despite the growing backlash, neither IRCTC nor Railway officials have offered a clear explanation for this shift. While it’s being described as a “minor UI update,” the implications for passenger autonomy are significant.
Many travelers are voicing their frustration online, demanding that IRCTC restore the visibility and flexibility of the ‘No Food’ option. They argue that meal selection should remain a personal choice—not a hidden clause.
Legal Note: This report is based on publicly available information and user experiences. Any updates or clarifications from IRCTC or Indian Railways will be incorporated as received.
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