Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, alongside former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu, officially opened 25 new Atal Canteens on Sunday, bringing the total number of these subsidized food outlets in the national capital to 100. The inauguration coincided with the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose values the scheme aims to uphold.
The Atal Canteens initiative is designed to provide affordable and nutritious meals to economically weaker sections of society, including laborers, slum dwellers, and individuals seeking employment in Delhi. Each meal is priced at just ₹5 and is served twice daily for both lunch and dinner.
Major Milestone for Delhi Government
Speaking at an event near Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station, CM Gupta described the completion of 100 Atal Canteens as a significant achievement for her administration. She stated, “This initiative is a meaningful tribute dedicated to the spirit of Antyodaya and the ideals of public service upheld by revered Atal ji.” Gupta emphasized that the Delhi government is committed to ensuring no needy person is deprived of respectful and nutritious food, carrying forward Vajpayee's dedication to the welfare of the last person in society.
Over 1 Lakh Meals Daily Expected
With 100 canteens now operational, the Delhi government estimates that more than 1 lakh people will be able to access subsidized meals every day. Each Atal Canteen has the capacity to serve approximately 1,000 meals daily, split equally between lunch and dinner. Gupta specifically noted that the new canteen near Delhi University’s Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station would particularly benefit students from outside Delhi by providing them with affordable and healthy food options.
Praise from Former Vice-President
Former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu lauded the launch of 100 Atal Canteens, calling it a “highly commendable initiative.” He highlighted that the scheme would be instrumental in providing affordable and nutritious food to vulnerable populations, including the poor, slum residents, and laborers. Naidu characterized the initiative as a testament to sensitivity and service towards society’s most vulnerable segments.
The inauguration event was also attended by BJP MP Manoj Tiwari, Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood, and other government officials and public representatives. The Atal Canteen scheme, which operates seven days a week, was a key promise made by the BJP ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly election. Approximately 95 lakh subsidized meals have already been served under the scheme since its inception.