AAP MP Raghav Chadha drinks tea for ₹10 at Mumbai Airport, shares video

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha has highlighted a significant shift in airport catering affordability by sharing his experience at Mumbai Airport. The Member of Parliament posted a video on his official social media handle showing him enjoying a cup of tea for a mere ₹10 at the 'Udaan Yatri Cafe'. During the visit, Chadha displayed the bill to demonstrate that affordable dining options are now becoming a reality at major transit hubs.

The MP, who was traveling to Delhi, interacted with several fellow passengers at the cafe to gauge their feedback. According to Chadha, the travelers expressed satisfaction with the service, describing it as 'value for money' and 'light on the pocket'. This development comes as a contrast to the long-standing public grievances regarding the exorbitant prices of food and beverages at Indian airports, where basic items often cost several times their market value.

Advocacy for Affordable Airport Services

Raghav Chadha has been a vocal advocate for middle-class interests in the Rajya Sabha, frequently raising issues related to consumer rights and the cost of living, while on multiple occasions during parliamentary sessions, he had formally requested the government to address the high costs of food and water at airports. He had proposed the establishment of affordable canteens or cafes to cater to the common traveler, while his visit to the ₹10 tea stall is seen as an endorsement of the implementation of such demands.

The 'Udaan Yatri Cafe' Initiative

The 'Udaan Yatri Cafe' is a strategic initiative launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The primary objective of this project is to provide clean, high-quality, and budget-friendly food and beverage options to passengers. The cafe serves as an alternative to premium lounges and high-end restaurants, ensuring that air travel becomes more accessible and economical for the general public. The ministry views this as a step toward enhancing the passenger experience across socio-economic segments.

Addressing the Inflation at Airports

For years, passengers at Indian airports faced high prices, with bottled water often priced at ₹100 and snacks like samosas costing between ₹150 and ₹200. The lack of alternatives forced middle-class travelers to bear these high expenses. With the introduction of 'Udaan Yatri Cafe', basic items like tea are now available at ₹10, providing significant financial relief. This initiative specifically targets the needs of budget-conscious travelers who previously had limited options during their transit.

Expansion Plans and Future Targets

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has outlined a phased rollout plan for these affordable cafes. The first such outlet was inaugurated in December 2024 at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. Following its successful reception, the model is being replicated at other major airports across the country. The government aims to establish these cafes at most major AAI-operated airports by the year 2026, ensuring a standardized affordable dining experience for domestic and international travelers alike.

Social Media Impact and Public Response

By sharing the video, Raghav Chadha aimed to provide evidence that affordable airport dining is achievable through effective policy implementation. His post emphasized that quality service doesn't always have to come at a premium price. The video has garnered significant attention on social media platforms, with many users calling for the rapid expansion of such facilities to all airports in India. The MP reiterated his focus on economic reforms and reducing the financial burden on the common man.

Visited the Udaan Yatri café at Mumbai Airport and had chai for just ₹10.

Was flying to Delhi and wanted chai before the flight. Spoke to several travellers while I was there. All of them happy, all of them saying the same thing: Easy on the pocket, good service, value for… pic.twitter.com/wOelXZ2iZS

— Raghav Chadha (@raghav_chadha) March 30, 2026