If your PG has no meals, or only some meals, a small set of kitchen basics goes a long way. Buy for one or two people, check what the shared kitchen already has, and remember that several cookware and container types are on BIS’s compulsory certification list.
Small pressure cooker (2–3 litres)
Dal, rice and one-pot meals for one or two people, quickly.
Check before you buy
- Two to three litres is a practical size for one or two people.
- An induction-compatible base if you will cook on induction.
- Look for the ISI mark.
- Check that spare gaskets and safety valves are easy to find.
Skip or avoid
- Forcing the lid open while there is still pressure inside; follow the manual.
Safety note. Domestic pressure cookers are on BIS’s compulsory certification list (IS 2347). Source: BIS Scheme I (ISI mark) list (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
Most useful for: PG, no meals · Working PG
Induction cooktop (only where allowed)
A way to cook where there is no gas stove, if the owner allows it.
Check before you buy
- Ask the owner first: some PGs ban in-room cooking, and the wiring must take the load.
- It needs cookware with a magnetic base; test with a fridge magnet.
- An auto-off timer and pan detection.
- Look for the ISI mark.
Skip or avoid
- Running it from an extension board with other heavy appliances.
- Cooking near curtains or bedding.
Safety note. BIS’s compulsory list includes a 2024 order on the safety of household, commercial and similar electrical appliances (IS 302 Part 1). Source: BIS Scheme I (ISI mark) list (opens in a new tab); Nagaland fire service advisory (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
Most useful for: PG, no meals · Working PG
Basic cookware: kadhai, saucepan and ladle
A kadhai and a saucepan with lids cover most single-person cooking.
Check before you buy
- Lids for both, and handles that stay cool enough to hold.
- An induction-ready base if you need it.
- Look for the ISI mark on stainless steel and aluminium cookware.
Skip or avoid
- A large boxed set you have no space to store.
Safety note. BIS lists stainless steel cookware (IS 14756) and wrought aluminium utensils (IS 1660) under compulsory certification. Source: BIS Scheme I (ISI mark) list (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
Most useful for: PG, no meals · Working PG
Insulated lunch box
Carry a packed lunch to class or the office.
Check before you buy
- Leak-proof inner containers for dal or curry.
- A size that fits your bag.
- Look for the ISI mark.
Skip or avoid
- Containers you cannot wash properly.
Safety note. Insulated containers for food storage (IS 17569) are on BIS’s compulsory certification list. Source: BIS Scheme I (ISI mark) list (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
Most useful for: PG with meals · PG, no meals · Working PG
Vacuum flask
Tea or hot water through a late study night or a cold morning, without a kettle.
Check before you buy
- A mouth wide enough to clean.
- A lid that seals for carrying in a bag.
- Look for the ISI mark.
Skip or avoid
- Filling it right to the brim with boiling water.
Safety note. BIS lists domestic stainless steel vacuum flasks and bottles (IS 17526) and insulated flasks (IS 17790) under compulsory certification. Source: BIS Scheme I (ISI mark) list (opens in a new tab), checked 26 October 2026.
Most useful for: Hostel · PG with meals · PG, no meals · Working PG
Steel plate, bowl, glass and spoon
Your own set for snacks and meals in the room, so you are not borrowing.
Check before you buy
- One of each per person is enough.
- Stainless steel is hard-wearing and easy to wash.
Skip or avoid
- Fragile glass or ceramic in a shared room.
Most useful for: Hostel · PG with meals · PG, no meals · Working PG
Airtight snack and grocery containers
Keeps ants, damp and roommates’ hands out of your snacks and staples.
Check before you buy
- Airtight lids.
- Stackable shapes for a shared shelf.
- Food-grade marking on plastic containers.
Skip or avoid
- Leaving food open in the room; it attracts insects.
Most useful for: Hostel · PG with meals · PG, no meals · Working PG
