Bhubaneswar: Aahaar, the subsidised cooked meal scheme, will continue in the state as it serves public interest, says housing and urban development minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra after paying a surprise visit to the Aahaar Kendra inside Capital Hospital, here on Thursday.
Mahapatra, however, hinted of a likely change in the name of the scheme, which was launched by the Naveen Patnaik govt in 2015.He said a review meeting will be held to discuss renaming of the scheme soon.

Mahapatra upon arriving at the food center first bought a coupon and ate the food alongside the people. He interacted with the beneficiaries and asked them about the quality of food and their overall experience at the food centre. “Aahaar Kendras are for the poor and needy people. It will continue to serve its intended purpose. We are considering a revision of the name of the scheme. We will also discuss if more food items could be added to a meal,” he said after the surprise visit.
Mahapatra directed food staff to ensure cleanliness of the kitchen and dining area while ordering immediate repair of a broken dishwashing machine.
He has also directed the officials to maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness at all such food outlets. He said providing nutritious food in a clean and healthy environment is the commitment of the govt. “It is important to serve the poor with dignity,” said Mahapatra advising the officials to involve self-supporting mothers in the service to improve the quality further, considering the rising costs. The minister said the govt subsidises the meals at the Aahaar Kendras, with the state paying Rs 23 and people paying only Rs 5.
Mahapatra emphasized that the Aahaar scheme is a crucial initiative to ensure food security for the underprivileged sections of society.

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