IEP Chandigarh, January 27
Under the “Antyodaya Aahar Yojana,” launched by Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal, to provide affordable meals to workers, the Labour Department has successfully initiated the operation of 127 labour canteens across the state. Individuals can access nutritious meals at a nominal cost of Rs 10 at these designated canteens.
Providing further details here today, an official spokesperson stated that among these 127 canteens, 52 are base canteens equipped with kitchen facilities for both cooking and serving meals. The remaining 75 canteens will distribute food prepared in a central kitchen, utilizing 39 vans and 9 e-rickshaws for transportation to designated sites.
In addition to offering food at affordable prices, these canteens will also generate employment opportunities for members of self-help groups. Currently, 52 self-help groups are affiliated with the canteens, with approximately 488 members participating in their operation. With a capacity to serve around 27,000 workers daily, these canteens, strategically situated near workplaces and major industrial zones, are poised to cater to the needs of the labor force efficiently.
The spokesperson highlighted that the project aimed at establishing 100 canteens under the Antyodaya Aahar Yojana has been extended to operate 127 canteens across the state. This initiative not only ensures access to affordable food for the needy but also provides employment opportunities for women in self-help groups. The government’s objective is to ensure both male and female workers have access to nutritious meals at reasonable prices. To facilitate easy access, workers can conveniently locate their nearest canteen and mobile unit through the Labour Department’s website using their mobile devices, thus streamlining their access via map directions.
The locations of all permanent canteens and mobile units have been made available through a map on the website of the Labor Department www.hrylabour.gov.in.
Taking into account key areas and workplaces along with the workforce density, the government has designated canteens at 4 locations in Karnal, 9 in Sonipat, 5 in Yamunanagar, 31 in Gurugram, 15 in Faridabad, 5 in Nuh, 9 in Panipat, 4 in Ambala, and several other places including 4 canteens, operational in Panchkula.