To mark the centenary celebrations of BJP’s first Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, the Delhi government has announced the roll out of  100 Atal Canteens across the capital. The Rs 100 Crore scheme aims to set up eateries in every slum cluster, offering hot cooked meals for just Rs 5 to support those in need.

The scheme also subserves the BJP’s promise to launch subsidised canteens in the run-up to the Delhi Assembly elections. The Atal Canteens are subsidised food outlets established in several states to provide affordable, nutritious meals to economically disadvantaged individuals. Named in honour of  the former Prime Minister, these canteens aim to alleviate hunger and support low-income populations by offering meals at minimal prices.

Inspired by Tamil Nadu’s Amma Canteens and Karnataka’s Indira Canteens, this initiative is designed to provide affordable food to economically disadvantaged communities.

In Haryana, the government had introduced Atal Kisan Mazdoor Canteens to provide affordable meals to farmers and labourers working in agricultural markets (mandis). For just Rs 10, workers can get a plate of chapatis, rice, dal, and seasonal vegetables—ensuring they have access to hot, nutritious food.

Initially, these canteens operated only during procurement seasons, but in July 2023, then chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced that they would now remain open throughout the year to support workers even in the off-season.

By replicating these models in Delhi, the BJP aims to feed the city’s most vulnerable population, ensuring they have access to nutritious food without financial strain.