The IRCTC has summoned dairy major Amul following a passenger complaint alleging the presence of insect body parts or worms in curd served onboard the Patna–Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express.
Calling the issue a “grave quality concern,” IRCTC said it has taken the matter seriously and sought a detailed explanation from Amul as part of an ongoing investigation into food safety lapses on the premium train service.
In response, Amul denied any lapse at the production level, stating that such contamination is “scientifically and operationally impossible” within its manufacturing processes. The company added that a comprehensive audit of its supply chain revealed no deviations or quality issues.
Amul further clarified that the specific batch of curd in question was not supplied through its authorised distribution network. Based on its internal assessment and video evidence shared by the passenger, the company indicated that the contamination may have originated from an infested serving tray used by the onboard vendor, rather than the product itself.
The controversy has triggered strict action from the railways. Authorities have imposed a ₹10 lakh penalty on IRCTC, along with a ₹50 lakh fine on the onboard catering contractor, directing termination of the vendor’s contract. Industry observers note that this ranks among the highest penalties imposed on railway catering services to date.
The incident comes at a time when Indian Railways is intensifying efforts to upgrade onboard food quality and passenger experience. Earlier this year, the Railway Board outlined reforms aimed at improving catering standards, while IRCTC has been experimenting with restaurant-style menus and partnerships with established food brands at stations and on select routes.
With IRCTC serving nearly 1.65 million meals daily, the episode underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining consistent food safety standards across India’s vast railway network, even as authorities push for premiumisation and better service delivery.