The Delhi government has opened 100 Atal Canteens across the national capital to provide affordable and hygienic meals to people. The milestone was reached after 25 new canteens were inaugurated, taking the total number of operating centres to 100.
The new canteens were opened on a day marking the eighth death anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The inauguration programme was held at Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station and was attended by former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and other government officials.
The Atal Canteens have been opened in several locations across Delhi. These include JJ clusters, labour colonies, hospitals and areas around Delhi University. The aim is to make affordable food easily available to people who need it.
Under the scheme, people can get a meal for just Rs 5. The government has said that the food will be prepared and served while maintaining proper hygiene and quality standards.
The programme is expected to benefit around 100,000 people across Delhi. It is particularly aimed at daily wage workers, labourers, students, patients’ families and other people who may find it difficult to afford regular meals.
The government believes that providing low-cost food can help families reduce their daily expenses. For people who work in different parts of the city, the canteens can also provide an easy and affordable option for lunch or other meals.
Focus on Hygiene and Nutrition
Apart from keeping prices low, the government has stressed the importance of clean and nutritious food. Officials are expected to monitor the canteens to ensure that food is prepared in a safe environment.
The scheme is designed to support people from economically weaker sections while also ensuring that they have access to basic food at an affordable price.
The Atal Canteen programme was launched on December 25, 2023, on the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Since then, the government has gradually expanded the number of canteens across Delhi.
The opening of the 100th canteen marks an important step in the expansion of the programme. Authorities hope that the network will continue to help more people in different parts of the city.
The initiative also reflects the government’s focus on providing basic support to workers and low-income families. By keeping the cost of a meal at Rs 5, the scheme aims to make food accessible to a larger section of society.
With all 100 Atal Canteens now operational, the Delhi government is expected to focus on maintaining food quality, cleanliness and regular service at the centres.
The programme is intended to provide affordable, hygienic and nutritious meals while reducing the financial pressure on people who depend on low-cost food options in the capital.