Sweet deal: IRCTC plans sugar-free food, drinks for travelling diabetics

Passengers travelling in premium long-distance trains such as Rajdhani and Duronto Express might soon get the option of sugar-free juices and meals instead of the regular food served on board.

Passengers travelling in premium long-distance trains such as Rajdhani and Duronto Express might soon get the option of sugar-free juices and meals instead of the regular food served on board.

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The Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is consulting nutrition experts who will help them design a special menu for diabetics.

From April 1, passengers travelling by first AC on the Rajdhani will get a choice of coconut water and natural juices without added sugar. Similarly, fibre biscuits will replace regular ones in the sugar-free breakfast.

"Considering the number of inquiries for sugar-free meals and juices, we have decided to roll out a meal for diabetics. The nutritionist will help us come up with some healthy and sugar-free options," said Virender Singh, group general manager, IRCTC.

The facility will gradually be extended to the 2nd and 3rd AC coaches as well. A similar service will be started in the four Duronto Express trains in phases.

Appreciating the move, activists wanted the service to be introduced on all trains on which the Railways provides food.