Across India, various state governments have launched subsidized food programs to tackle hunger and urban poverty. These initiatives provide meals at incredibly low prices, helping thousands of people daily. From Amma Canteens in Tamil Nadu to Indira Canteens in Karnataka, these welfare schemes ensure no one goes hungry. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most popular and affordable canteens across the country.
1. Amma Canteens, Tamil Nadu: Meals Starting at ₹1
Amma Canteens, launched in 2013 by former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, provide meals to the urban poor at extremely low prices. These canteens offer:
- Idli for ₹1
- Chapati for ₹3
- Rice meals, including Pongal, Sambar, and Curd Rice, for ₹5
Currently, Chennai alone has 388 Amma Canteens, serving over one lakh meals daily. Operated by women from self-help groups, these canteens not only provide affordable food but also empower women by offering them employment with daily wages of ₹300.
The Tamil Nadu government continues to invest heavily in this initiative, with ₹469 crore spent between May 2021 and July 2024. The scheme remains a lifeline for many, despite political transitions.
2. Indira Rasoi Yojana, Rajasthan: ₹17 Full Meals
Launched in 2020 by the Ashok Gehlot-led Rajasthan government, Indira Rasoi Yojana provides wholesome meals for just ₹17. Operated by over 800 NGOs and self-help groups, these centers offer food every day of the week.
Under this scheme:
- The meals are subsidized, with actual costs exceeding ₹20 per plate.
- One lakh meals are served daily across the state.
Initially started as a mobile canteen concept, this scheme was revived during the COVID-19 pandemic to help people in need.
3. Shiv Bhojan Thali, Maharashtra: Meals at ₹10
The Shiv Bhojan Thali program was introduced by the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in 2020 to provide affordable meals in Maharashtra. With over 1,700 outlets, this scheme is especially popular in urban and rural areas alike.
Key features include:
- Cost per plate in urban areas: ₹10 (actual cost ₹50)
- Cost per plate in rural areas: ₹10 (actual cost ₹35)
The scheme serves approximately 1.75 lakh meals daily and has an allocated budget of ₹220 crore for the fiscal year 2023-24. Despite political controversies, it remains operational, addressing the food security needs of millions.
4. Indira Canteens, Karnataka: Breakfast for ₹5, Meals for ₹10
Started in 2017 by the Karnataka government under Siddaramaiah, Indira Canteens focus on providing affordable meals to urban residents. With 185 canteens in Bengaluru alone, these centers serve around 1.5 to 2 lakh meals daily.
Details of the scheme:
- Breakfast: ₹5
- Lunch/Dinner: ₹10
- Total cost per plate: Over ₹60 (subsidized by the state government and local bodies).
The scheme has received consistent budgetary support, with ₹100 crore allocated for 2023.
5. Annapurna Canteens, Telangana: Nutritious Meals for ₹5
Telangana’s Annapurna Canteens, launched in 2014, aim to provide affordable meals to urban residents. Operated in collaboration with the Hare Krishna Movement Charitable Foundation, these canteens serve over 45,000 meals daily.
- Meal cost for citizens: ₹5
- Actual production cost per plate: ₹24 (entirely borne by the government).
With 150 operational canteens, the Telangana government has spent over ₹200 crore on this welfare initiative, ensuring quality and hygiene in every meal.
6. Food Centers in Odisha: Meals for ₹5
Odisha’s Food Centers, introduced in 2015, provide meals to the needy for ₹5. Spread across 167 locations, including hospitals and municipal areas, this scheme serves one lakh meals daily.
- Cost of preparation per plate: ₹23
- Subsidy provided by the Odisha State Diet Society: ₹18
Despite a change in government, the scheme continues to operate under a revised name, benefiting thousands every day.
7. Atal Kisan Mazdoor Canteens, Haryana: Seasonal Pricing
Haryana’s Atal Kisan Mazdoor Canteens were launched in 2020 to support farmers and laborers. These canteens operate in districts like Sirsa, Karnal, and Rohtak, offering meals at different rates depending on the season.
- Farming seasons (March-May, September-November): ₹10 (dine-in), ₹15 (takeaway).
- Off-seasons: ₹20 (dine-in), ₹25 (takeaway).
Supported by the Agriculture Department, NGOs, and banks, these canteens serve over 200-300 people daily.
8. Low-Cost Food Schemes in Delhi: Meals Starting at ₹1
Delhi also has various low-cost food programs catering to the urban poor. Initiatives like the Atal Aahar Yojana and Shyam Rasoi ensure affordable food for all.
- Atal Aahar Yojana: ₹15 for meals, ₹10 for breakfast.
- Shyam Rasoi in Nangloi: ₹1 per plate (includes rice, vegetables, chapati, and sweets).
Additionally, NGOs in areas like Vikaspuri and Janakpuri provide meals for ₹10, featuring dishes like Rajma-Rice and Kadhi-Roti.
Affordable Meals Beyond Tamil Nadu
The success of Amma Canteens inspired similar schemes across other states. These initiatives not only ensure affordable meals but also serve as a model for welfare programs nationwide. Whether it’s a ₹1 idli in Tamil Nadu or a ₹5 rice plate in Odisha, these canteens continue to fight hunger and poverty, one meal at a time.
