Delhi expands Atal Canteen network to 71 as 25 new centres inaugurated to serve Rs 5 meals

The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena, along with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, on Thursday inaugurated 25 additional Atal Canteens in the national capital, increasing the total number of such facilities to 71.

- TIKAM SHARMA. NEW DELHI

The inauguration was conducted digitally from Nursery Basti in Krishna Nagar in the presence of ministers, MLAs and senior officials.After the launch, the Lieutenant Governor, the Chief Minister and other dignitaries shared a meal with members of the public at the canteen.

Speaking on the occasion, Saxena termed the expansion a major milestone for the city, noting that 71 operational canteens are now serving clean and nutritious food at affordable prices in various parts of Delhi. He said the initiative has significantly benefited economically weaker sections of society.

‘The scheme was launched on December 25 last year to mark the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna awardee Atal Bihari Vajpayee. According to the Lieutenant Governor, the canteens have extended support to migrant labourers, students, rickshaw pullers, sanitation staff, domestic workers and daily wage earners.