In a major boost to food security, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta inaugurated 25 new Atal Canteens, bringing the total to 100. Over 1 lakh people will now benefit from highly subsidized ₹5 meals every day.

Key Takeaways

  • Delhi now hosts a total of 100 Atal Canteens.
  • Each canteen aims to serve 1,000 meals daily (500 lunch, 500 dinner).
  • Over 100,000 people will benefit from the ₹5 meal scheme daily.
  • Inaugurated by CM Rekha Gupta and former VP M. Venkaiah Naidu.

New Delhi: Marking the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, alongside former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu, inaugurated 25 new Atal Canteens on Sunday. This expansion brings the total number of such canteens in the national capital to 100, significantly strengthening the city's food security net.

The initiative is designed to provide affordable and nutritious meals to the most vulnerable sections of society, including laborers, slum dwellers, and outstation students. According to the Delhi government, each canteen is targeted to serve approximately 1,000 meals per day at a subsidized rate of just ₹5. This ensures that over one lakh people can access quality food daily without financial strain.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that such large-scale subsidized food programs act as a critical social safety net in rapidly growing urban centers like Delhi. By targeting transit hubs like the Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station, the government is effectively addressing the nutritional needs of the mobile working class and student population.

"This initiative is a meaningful tribute dedicated to the spirit of Antyodaya and the ideals of public service upheld by revered Atal ji." - CM Rekha Gupta

During the event, Mr. Naidu lauded the government for its sensitivity toward the poor. The scheme also aligns with political commitments made during the lead-up to the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections. Additionally, the government announced plans to implement an e-Cabinet system to make administrative processes more transparent and paperless.

Historical Background

The 'Atal Canteen' concept is named after the late PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose political philosophy emphasized 'Antyodaya'—the upliftment of the last person in the social hierarchy. This scheme translates that philosophy into a tangible urban welfare model.

Did You Know?: Through the Atal Canteen scheme, approximately 95 lakh subsidized meals have already been served to the public across Delhi.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does a meal cost at an Atal Canteen?
Meals are provided at a highly subsidized rate of only ₹5.

2. Who is the target audience for this scheme?
The scheme targets daily wage laborers, students, slum residents, and low-income individuals.