City's Indira Canteens to reopen soon

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Bengaluru's Indira Canteens, a visionary initiative of the previous Congress government that had languished during the BJP's tenure, is now set for a remarkable resurgence. During his first press conference after being sworn in for a second term, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his intent to revive the Indira Canteens, seeking detailed information about their current state.

These subsidized canteens were being neglected since the BJP assumed power in 2019. Jayaram Rayapura, the Special Commissioner of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), announced that the Indira Canteens would be given a fresh lease of life, with a revamped appearance and an expected reopening within a month.

The pricing structure will also be revised, with breakfast now costing Rs 10 compared to the previous Rs 5, and an expanded menu offering more items. Officials have been instructed to incorporate nutritious food options, while dinner will be made available based on demand.

"The Indira Canteens have been operational but had to be closed in some locations due to lack of patronage. Additionally, 10 mobile canteens were shut down. With the increase in the number of wards from 198 to 243, we will be reintroducing mobile canteens, and tenders for the same will be floated soon. We are also planning to increase the quantity of breakfast, although there is currently no demand for dinner. It may be necessary to raise the prices from Rs 5 to Rs 10," stated Jayaram Rayapura, the BBMP Special Commissioner.

Out of the 194 Indira Canteens, around 120 to 130 are in good condition, but the kitchens will require new equipment. However, the BBMP has remained silent regarding the alleged irregularities that occurred during the operation of these canteens.