New Delhi witnessed a significant boost to affordable nutrition today as Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated 25 new Atal Canteens, elevating the total count to 71 across the city. This move promises to serve 71,000 nutritious thalis daily at just Rs 5 each, a game-changer for Delhi’s hardworking laborers and daily wage earners.
Speaking at the event, CM Gupta didn’t hold back in critiquing the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. ‘For 11 long years, these canteens remained stuck in files under AAP’s rule,’ she remarked sharply. ‘But in just one year of BJP governance, we’ve operationalized 71 Atal Canteens. This is our speed and commitment in action.’
The inauguration, graced by Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena, took place across various Delhi locales, including a personal visit by the CM to the Atal Canteen in Geeta Colony, East Delhi, where she partook in a meal. Gupta highlighted the initiative’s roots in the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and guidance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. ‘These canteens are a pride for every toiling citizen contributing to Delhi’s growth,’ she said. ‘Our goal is 100 such outlets, ensuring no one in the national capital sleeps hungry, with dignified, wholesome meals for Rs 5.’
Notable attendees included State Minister Harsh Malhotra, Delhi Minister Ashish Sood, BJP MLA Anil Goyal, and local dignitaries. This launch follows closely on the heels of CM Gupta’s recent announcement of multi-crore development projects for trans-Yamuna areas, encompassing the reconstruction of 236 roads, sewer renovations, and permanent solutions to waterlogging.
On social media platform X, Gupta emphasized, ‘This isn’t mere infrastructure—it’s a pledge for equal rights, superior amenities, and respect for Yamuna-paar residents, positioning them at the forefront of a developed Delhi.’ With these strides, the BJP government is underscoring its focus on welfare, development, and rapid execution, setting a new benchmark for urban governance in the capital.