Twenty-five new Atal Canteens were inaugurated across Delhi on Sunday, taking the total number of operational outlets under the scheme to 100.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accompanied by former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu, inaugurated the new canteens through remote control on the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
The canteens provide a complete meal for just Rs 5, comprising dal, rice, four rotis, a vegetable and pickle. Each outlet can prepare meals for up to 1,000 people and operates twice a day—from 11 am to 2 pm and 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
Several of the new outlets are located near major hospitals, including AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital, as well as densely populated areas where daily wage workers and economically weaker families reside.
Long queues were witnessed at several centres as residents purchased Rs 5 coupons and waited for their meals. Daily wagers, slum residents and relatives of hospital patients welcomed the initiative, saying affordable meals can provide significant relief amid rising household expenses.However, some beneficiaries also raised concerns over portion sizes and food quality, underlining the need for consistent standards as the network expands.
The Delhi government has said the 100 canteens are aimed at serving around one lakh people every day. Officials maintain that the nominal Rs 5 charge not only makes nutritious food accessible but also allows beneficiaries to retain a sense of dignity while availing the service.
The Atal Canteen initiative was launched on December 25, 2025, and has since emerged as a prominent component of the Delhi government’s social welfare programme.With the expansion of the network, maintaining hygiene, food quality, adequate portions and uninterrupted supplies will now be crucial.
For thousands of workers and vulnerable families, the initiative promises something basic but important—a hot, nutritious and affordable meal when every rupee counts.
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