In a significant move to fulfill a key election promise, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated a network of subsidized food canteens across the national capital on Thursday. The launch was timed to coincide with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Fulfilling a Promise: The Atal Canteen Initiative
Speaking at the inauguration event held on December 25, 2025, CM Gupta announced that a total of 45 'Atal Canteens' are being opened for the public in the first phase. This initiative is a cornerstone of her government's commitment to providing affordable nutrition to the city's residents, a pledge made during the election campaign.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the work on the remaining 55 canteens is underway and will be completed in the near future. This will bring the total number of such facilities to 100, creating a wide-reaching network aimed at combating hunger and providing meals at highly subsidized rates.
New Welfare Plans Announced
Beyond the canteen launch, the event served as a platform for the Delhi government to outline its broader social welfare vision. Chief Minister Gupta used the occasion, marked by the memory of the late BJP stalwart, to announce a series of new plans focused on public welfare.
While specific details of the newly announced schemes were not fully elaborated in the initial announcement, the CM stated that they align with the government's pro-people agenda. The announcements are expected to cover areas essential for improving the quality of life for Delhi's citizens, particularly the underprivileged sections of society.
Symbolism and Service
The choice of date for the inauguration carries deep political and symbolic significance. By launching the 'Atal Canteens' on the birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the government links its welfare scheme to the legacy of the former Prime Minister, who is often remembered for his inclusive policies and governance.
This move is seen as an effort to underscore the administration's dedication to service and grassroots connectivity. The canteens are designed to serve nutritious meals at nominal prices, directly addressing food security concerns for daily wage workers, students, and low-income families.
The successful rollout of the first 45 canteens marks a concrete step towards translating electoral promises into actionable public service. All eyes will now be on the administration to expedite the completion of the remaining 55 canteens and to detail the new welfare plans promised by the Chief Minister.
