The open hand of Chandigarh symbolises the city’s belief in giving to all rather than taking, irrespective of age, gender, caste, rich or poor. Following the same belief, Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), UT Branch, Chandigarh launched a meal service Annapurna Akshaypatra Yojana for one and all at just Rs 10.
Since its launch, the meal service, by now feeds lunch and dinner to over 2000 people every day at 12 locations across the city. The scheme of food distribution began on January 2 this year, where 665 food packets were sold at five locations for Rs 10 per dinner meal. Considering the overwhelming response, the authorities are now planning an extension to the scheme by starting its second phase to kick off in couple of months. The meal service is so much in demand for its quality food and reasonable price.
12 Location to Avail Meal for Rs 10 in Chandigarh
- PGI- OPD
- Government Multi- Specialty Hospital (GMSH), Sector 16
- Government Medical College & Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32
- Sabzi Mandi, Transport Area, Sector 26
- Labour Chowk, Manimajra
- Labour Chowk (Near EWS Colony) Dhanas
- Labour Colony Number 4, Industrial Area, Phase 1
- Labour Chowk, Ram Darbar
- Labour Chowk, Sector 44A
- Shelter for needy, Sector 26 & 17
- Karuna Sadan, Sector 11
- Hallo Majra
As per the officials, the distribution of the number of food packets will be increased to 5,000 from 2000 at present by the end of March. Besides, lunch will also be distributed across all locations in the coming months.
Why was the meal service launched?
The authorities wish to provide food to one and all so that no one sleeps empty stomach and can avail nutrition. It also aims at offering quality food to the economically weaker section of the city at subsidised rates. Per meal will constitute of 6 chapatis and sabzi (vegetable) with pickle. With the initial cost of Rs 70 lakh, the kitchen was set up at Karuna Sadan Building, Sector 11-B, Chandigarh. All meals are cooked and packed at this kitchen itself before distribution.
True to its name, the meal service Annapurna Akshaypatra Yojana has proved to be boon for the needy and poor people. Hoping that the authorities will soon set up its network of food distribution at other locations of the city, which is still in the pipeline.
Image: Indian Express
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