Raghav Chada Airport Food: How One Question Changed Food Prices at Indian Airports
For years, airport travelers in India faced the same problem very expensive food. A cup of tea, a samosa, or even water cost much more than outside the airport.
In 2026, this long-standing issue came into the spotlight because of Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha.
Today, the topic popularly searched as Raghav Chada airport food has become a symbol of change for common passengers.
Table of Contents
Why Raghav Chadha Raised the Airport Food Issue
Airports Are for Everyone, Not Just the Rich
During the 2026 Parliament session, Raghav Chadha questioned why basic food items at airports were priced like luxury products.
He said airports are public places, not private clubs. If common people can afford flight tickets under the UDAN scheme, they should also be able to afford tea, water, and snacks.
The “₹200 Tea and Samosa” Question
Raghav Chadha highlighted how:
- Tea and snacks were sold at very high prices
- Passengers had no affordable options after security checks
- Food pricing did not match normal market rates
He asked the government to take action, just like Rail Neer and Jan Aahar in railways.
What Changed After the Debate?
Introduction of Udan Yatri Cafes
After public discussion and pressure, the Ministry of Civil Aviation launched Udan Yatri Cafes at airports.
These cafes were created to offer simple, hygienic food at affordable prices.
Price List at Udan Yatri Cafes
Passengers can now get:
- Water: ₹10
- Tea: ₹10–₹15
- Coffee: ₹20
- Samosa / Vada: ₹20
- Meal boxes: Under ₹100
This was a big relief for middle-class and frequent flyers.
Airports Where Udan Yatri Cafes Started
Expansion Across India
The idea first started at Kolkata and Chennai airports. After positive response, it expanded to:
- Pune
- Ahmedabad
- Vijayawada
- Itanagar
More airports are expected to follow the same model.
Why Raghav Chada Airport Food Went Viral in 2026
Social Media Made It Popular
In February 2026, travelers started posting videos comparing:
- Expensive airport food
- Affordable food at Udan Yatri Cafes
One video from Pune Airport went viral and crossed millions of views, thanking Raghav Chadha for making airport food affordable.
Public Reaction and Support
Even premium food outlets started offering budget combos due to competition. Many people called this a real change that affects daily life, not just politics.
How This Change Helps Common Travelers
Real Benefits
- Affordable food inside airports
- Less stress during travel
- Better choices for families and elderly passengers
The Raghav Chada airport food issue showed that small policy changes can bring big comfort to people.
Why Raghav Chada Airport Food Became Viral in 2026
Social Media Played a Big Role
Why Raghav Chada Airport Food Became Viral in 2026
Social Media Played a Big Role
In February 2026, travelers started sharing videos from airports showing:
- Cheap tea and snacks
- Price comparisons with premium outlets
One video from Pune Airport crossed millions of views and thanked Raghav Chadha for affordable airport food.
Public Reaction Was Strong
People across social media platforms shared similar experiences. Even private food outlets at airports started introducing:
- Budget combos
- Lower-priced snacks
The Raghav Chada airport food discussion became a people’s issue, not a political one.
Impact on Common Travelers
How This Change Helps Passengers
The initiative has:
- Reduced travel stress
- Made airports more welcoming
- Helped elderly passengers and children
- Given people choice, not compulsion
Passengers now feel airports are for everyone, not only for the rich.
Impact on Airport Food Vendors
Healthy Competition
Due to Udan Yatri Cafes:
- Private vendors had to rethink prices
- Monopoly ended
- Affordable options increased
This created a healthier food ecosystem inside airports.
Conclusion: A Small Question, A Big Impact
The story of Raghav Chada airport food proves that when public issues are raised strongly, change is possible.
From Parliament discussions to viral videos, this movement has made Indian airports more passenger-friendly and inclusive.
What is Raghav Chada airport food issue?
It refers to the initiative led by Raghav Chadha to reduce high food prices at Indian airports.
What are Udan Yatri Cafes?
These are affordable food counters at airports offering tea, water, snacks, and meals at low prices.
Why did airport food become cheaper?
After parliamentary debate and public support, the government introduced price-controlled food options.
Is Udan Yatri Cafe available at all airports?
No, but it is expanding to more airports across India.
Why is Raghav Chada airport food trending?
Because travelers shared viral videos in 2026 praising affordable airport food and crediting Raghav Chadha.