Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has relaunched the Anna Canteens, a scheme that provides subsidized meals to the underprivileged at a cost of five rupees, at a state-level event in Gudivada.
The first set of 100 Anna Canteens were relaunched on Independence Day, symbolizing not just a policy revival but a commitment to food security for all. The event in Gudivada was not just ceremonial but marked the beginning of a broader rollout across the state.
Mr. Naidu announced plans to open 203 canteens across Andhra Pradesh, with the remaining canteens expected to be operational by the end of September. This expansion aims to cover even the most remote tribal areas, ensuring no one goes hungry.
The state government has allocated Rs 200 crore per annum to maintain the canteens, with each outlet expected to incur a daily operational cost of Rs 53 lakh.
The initiative, a hallmark of the Telugu Desam Party’s (TDP) previous tenure, was shut down by the subsequent government but has now been reinstated, fulfilling an election promise and addressing the nutritional needs of the economically weaker sections.
The Anna Canteens were initially inspired by the legacy of TDP founder N.T. Rama Rao and the humanitarian efforts of Dokka Seethamma, known for her philanthropy in feeding the hungry.