Delhi's newly launched Atal Canteens have witnessed an overwhelming response, serving over 33,000 subsidized meals in just two days. The initiative, which aims to provide nutritious meals at a nominal cost of Rs 5, was launched on Thursday, December 25, 2025, to commemorate the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The scheme is designed to support daily-wage workers, the urban poor, and other economically vulnerable groups in Delhi by offering them access to affordable and hygienic food. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has described the Atal Canteens as a significant step towards ensuring a life of respect and self-reliance for the city's hardworking and underprivileged citizens.

According to official data, on the first day of operation, 17,587 people were served, with 8,604 availing lunch and 8,983 opting for dinner. The following day saw 15,805 beneficiaries until the time of reporting, comprising 10,696 during lunchtime and 5,109 during dinner. In total, 33,392 people have benefitted from the subsidized meals in the first two days.

Currently, 45 Atal Canteens are operational across Delhi, with plans to expand the network to 100 in the next 15 to 20 days. The Delhi government has allocated Rs 104.24 crore for the operation and management of this ambitious scheme. Each canteen is expected to serve approximately 1,000 meals per day, potentially benefiting over 100,000 people daily across Delhi.

The canteens operate twice a day, with lunch served from 11:30 am to 2 pm and dinner from 6:30 pm to 9 pm. The standardized menu includes nutritious items such as dal-rice, roti, vegetables, and pickle. Each meal weighs approximately 600 grams, providing an average of 700-800 calories and 20-25 grams of protein.

To maintain transparency and smooth operations, the canteens utilize digital token systems and CCTV surveillance. Regular audits are also in place to ensure quality. The quality of food and raw materials will be regularly tested by FSSAI and NABL-accredited laboratories.

Union Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar, along with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, inaugurated an Atal Canteen near 'Apna Bazaar' in Nehru Nagar, Lajpat Nagar. Gupta emphasized that a symbolic contribution of Rs 5 has been fixed to preserve the self-respect of beneficiaries, encourage responsible consumption, and prevent food wastage. While beneficiaries pay Rs 5 per meal, the Delhi government subsidizes the remaining Rs 25 per plate.

The initiative is expected to generate employment for around 700 people. Eleven experienced agencies have been selected by DUSIB (Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board) through a transparent tendering process for the operation of the Atal Canteens.

The overwhelming response to the Atal Canteens in the first two days demonstrates the critical need for such initiatives in addressing food security and providing affordable meals to Delhi's vulnerable populations. The Delhi government aims to ensure that no one in the city goes hungry by expanding the program to 100 canteens.