Early Times Report JAMMU, Sept 8: Indian Railways and IRCTC have taken a remarkable initiative to give travellers a taste of culture and tradition. On the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, passengers will now be served regional traditional vegetarian dishes, which are not only delicious but also reflect the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. As part of this new service, travellers will get to enjoy Kashmiri and Dogra delicacies such as Kashmiri Kahwa, bakery products, Rajma-Chawal (kidney beans with rice), fragrant Kashmiri Pulao, local dish Babru, sweet and sour Ambal, Jammu parantha, flavorful Paneer Chaman, spicy Dum Aloo, and fresh apples from Jammu and Kashmir. From breakfast to lunch, every dish will carry the essence of local flavours and tradition. This initiative is not just about offering a rich culinary experience to passengers, but also aims to boost the agriculture, horticulture, and local food industries of Jammu and Kashmir. Local farmers, orchardists, and small food producers will gain new market opportunities, promoting economic empowerment. Senior BJP leader and former Vice Chairman Balbir Ram Rattan appreciated the move, saying that our food is not just nourishment, but a symbol of our tradition and identity. Including regional dishes in a modern train service like Vande Bharat strengthens the spirit of self-reliant India and the 'Vocal for Local' initiative. Balbir Ram Rattan also called it an excellent example of the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' campaign, which showcases the confluence of culture, diversity, and national unity. This initiative by Indian Railways and IRCTC not only connects passengers with flavour and culture but is also a creative effort to bring local products to a national platform. Vande Bharat is no longer just a journey-it is becoming a cultural experience. |