Delhi govt to provide meals for Rs 5 under Atal Canteen scheme

The Delhi government is set to launch a scheme under which people will be provided nutritious and hygienically prepared meals for Rs 5 to bring relief to poor, labourers, and ordinary citizens.

The scheme, known as the Atal Canteen scheme, is going to be launched by the Delhi government, which is not only going to serve as a source of support for economically weaker sections, but will also strengthen the principles of social equality and dignity, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has said.

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Announcing this, CM stated that in the first phase, such canteens will be opened at 100 locations across the city, adding that places for these canteens have been identified.

According to the CM, the canteens will be inaugurated on the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and the responsibility for operating these centres is being entrusted to selected organisations.

An inter-departmental committee has already approved recommendations regarding site selection, menu, distribution system, and management framework, officials said.

Notably, the menu will include dal-chawal (lentils and rice), vegetables, and roti (bread), and at each centre, 500 meals will be served in the morning and 500 in the evening.

According to the CM, the government will also provide subsidies to maintain food quality.

Interestingly, the food distribution process will be operated through a digital token system, to ensure there is no possibility of any irregularity.

All distribution centres will be equipped with CCTV cameras, enabling real-time monitoring through DUSIB’s digital platform.

To ensure the quality of food, samples of meals and raw materials will be tested by FSSAI and NABL-accredited laboratories, and the implementing agencies will also be required to submit monthly reports on food distribution, employee health certificates, fire safety certificates, and valid FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) licences.

CM Gupta has said that Atal Canteens will become the soul of Delhi, with the city becoming a place where no one will have to sleep hungry.

The CM also added that the scheme is a tribute to the former PM’s deep compassion and concern for the underprivileged.

“Atal Ji often said that poverty is not merely a lack of money, but a lack of opportunity,” CM mentioned, adding that this belief has inspired the Delhi government to take this meaningful step.