Amma Canteens Crisis: 19 Out of 42 Closed, Affordable Meals at Risk

• 19 out of 42 Indira Amma Canteens, established under the Harish Rawat government in 2015, have closed down.
• These canteens provide meals for just 20-25 rupees, offering affordable food to laborers, students, and low-income individuals.
• Residents like Amit and Dhyan Singh rely on these canteens, stating that market meals cost 80-100 rupees, making it difficult for those with low salaries.
• Delays in government subsidy payments (10 rupees per meal) to self-help groups operating the canteens are cited as a major reason for closures.
• Rural Development Department Secretary Dheeraj Gabryal assures the scheme will not be abolished, aiming to continue providing affordable meals and women's employment.

Why It Matters: Closure of nearly half of Indira Amma Canteens threatens affordable food access for the poor.