2023 Karnataka Budget Highlights
Chief minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, gave orders to start at least 250 Indira Canteens, which offer discounted food, with one location in each ward of Bengaluru, on Monday.
The Congress pledged to expand and revive the state’s current canteens in its manifesto.
Siddaramaiah’s pet project, Indira Canteens, was first introduced from 2013 and 2018, when he served as Chief Minister.
Today, the Chief Minister met with senior authorities to discuss the operation and administration of the Indira Canteen.
“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.
According to him, up until now, the city corporation covered 70% of the expense and the government covered the remaining 30%, but going forward, each entity will cover 50% of the costs.
“In places other than Bengaluru, the government will bear 70 per cent of the cost, while remaining 30 per cent will be by local civic agencies there,” Siddaramaiah said adding he has asked for a list of places where canteens have to be opened afresh.
The Chief Minister stated that after fresh tenders are called, the menu will also change. He emphasised that cleanliness, quantity, and quality should all be guaranteed.
No pricing adjustments will be made, according to the senior legislator, and the canteens’ current rates will remain in effect.
“I have asked to call for a short term tender zonal wise. After the tender process, we will relaunch the programme,” he said in response to a question.
According to officials, officials were instructed at the meeting to visit the Indira Canteens and submit a report on the condition and functioning of the outlets.
They added that the canteens should be in fine condition and that repairs should be made as needed. They also said that the recommended menu should be carefully adhered to, and orders should be issued to supply native food in north Karnataka.
A request for ideas to establish new Indira Canteens at public locations such as colleges, hospitals, bus stops, taluk offices, etc. was also made.
There are 175 canteens in Bengaluru, of which 163 are open, according to officials who cited data. Breakfast is available at the canteens for Rs 5, while lunch and dinner are priced at Rs 10.
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