Karnataka govt to relaunch Indira Canteens, 250 outlets in Bengaluru

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, June 13, 2023: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday announced the opening of as many as 250 Indira Canteens across Bengaluru which will provide subsidised food with one outlet for each ward of the city.

 

 

During a recent meeting with top officials, the chief minister discussed provision of Indira Canteen service and its management.

"We have held discussions to restart the Indira Canteens. One Indira Canteen has to be opened in every ward (of Bengaluru). I have instructed to take measures to start a minimum of 250 Indira Canteens in Bengaluru city," Siddaramaiah told reporters after the meeting.

The new Indira Canteens will be set up at public places like colleges, hospitals, bus stands, taluk offices, etc.

Originally introduced during Siddaramaiah’s previous term as chief minister from 2013 to 2018, Indira Canteen provides breakfast, lunch and dinner at subsidised rates.

Furthermore, the senior Congress leader explained, "previously, the city corporation covered 70 per cent of the costs, while the government covered the remaining 30 per cent. However, going forward, both entities will bear an equal 50 per cent share.

"In places other than Bengaluru, the government will bear 70 per cent of the cost, while the remaining 30 per cent will be borne by local civic agencies there," Siddaramaiah said, adding he has asked for a list of places where canteens have to be opened afresh.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that new tenders would be issued and mentioned that the menu would also undergo changes. He stressed the importance of ensuring quantity, quality, and cleanliness. "The existing prices at Indira Canteens will remain unchanged, with no revisions," the chief minister said.

"I have asked to call for a short-term tender zonal-wise. After the tender process, we will relaunch the programme," Siddaramaiah said.

The Karnataka government has instructed officials to visit the Indira Canteens and submit a report on the condition and functioning of the outlets. Repairs must be undertaken wherever necessary and the canteens should be in good condition, the government told officials.

According to officials, Bengaluru currently has 175 canteens, of which 163 are operational. These canteens offer breakfast for Rs 5 and lunch and dinner for Rs 10 each.

Courtesy: India Today