Delhi, 21 November (H.S.): Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday laid the foundation stone for the city's first 'Atal Canteen' at Sanjay Basti in the Timarpur JJ cluster, launching an ambitious initiative to provide nutritious meals to the needy for just ₹5. The government plans to establish a network of 100 such canteens across the capital.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Minister stated that the project marks a significant step towards fulfilling a key promise made in the BJP's election manifesto. Our government is operating in mission mode with the goal of launching 100 Atal Canteens by December 25, the birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Gupta announced.

To ensure transparency and prevent irregularities, the meal distribution process will be managed through a fully digital token system, with no manual coupons permitted. All distribution centers will be equipped with CCTV cameras for real-time monitoring via the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) digital platform.

The kitchens will feature modern, LPG-based cooking systems, industrial RO water purifiers, and cold storage facilities.The Atal Canteen will become the soul of Delhi, where no citizen will have to remain hungry, the Chief Minister declared.

This scheme is dedicated to Atal Ji's profound love and compassion for the poor. He always said that poverty is not just economic, but also a lack of opportunity. She added that the initiative is a concrete step towards ensuring a dignified life and social equality.The event was also attended by Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari, Delhi Minister Ashish Sood, and MLA Surya Prakash Khatri, among other dignitaries.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar