Indira Canteens: A solution for B'luru' s hungry poor

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: The number of Indira Canteens in Bengaluru was increased to 250 in June 2023. The Congress government has pledged to open more Indira Canteens in the coming months. The reopening of the Indira Canteens has been met with widespread enthusiasm. Many people are grateful for the opportunity to get a healthy and affordable meal on a daily basis.

The canteens are also seen as a way to promote social inclusion and reduce hunger in the state. This is a welcome move, as the canteens provide a muchneeded service to the people of Karnataka. A correspondent from NT recently visited Indira Canteen, specifically Canteen Number 172, located in Madiwala.

The staff member interviewed at the canteen expressed immense satisfaction with the response they have received thus far. The canteen caters to construction workers and daily wage laborers who frequent the establishment regularly for their meals. According to the staff member, a large number of people visit it for each meal, indicating a high demand for the canteen's services.

During the visit, a security guard, while enjoying his lunch at the canteen, shared a heartwarming story. He mentioned that his wife, who started working after the pandemic, would return home exhausted from work. The added responsibility of cooking breakfast and lunch for him and their children became a significant challenge. However, since the introduction of Indira Canteen, their lives have improved.

Now, his wife only needs to prepare breakfast, as their children receive midday meals at school, and both he and his wife enjoy their lunches at the canteen. This has provided substantial relief to their family. The female staff member at the canteen also mentioned that there has been no food wastage since its opening.

Moreover, people are actively finishing their meals without leaving any leftovers, demonstrating a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the food provided. In BTM Layout ward number 176, another Indira Canteen has been making a significant impact. Vasanthaammal, the owner of the canteen, expressed her joy and contentment in serving meals to the hardworking individuals who visit her establishment with empty stomachs.

Each day, more than 20 people rely on her canteen for their daily sustenance, emphasising the valuable role it plays in the community. Vasanthaammal noted that the busiest period at the canteen is between 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm, as this is when most people take their lunch breaks. During this time, the canteen experiences a surge in customers.

The account from Indira Canteen showcases the positive impact it has had on the lives of workers and families in the community. By providing affordable and convenient meals, the canteen not only relieves the burden of cooking but also reduces food waste. Such initiatives play a vital role in promoting food security and alleviating the daily struggles faced by many individuals and families.