Chief Minister Naidu Re-inaugurates Subsidized Anna Canteens in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu reopened Anna Canteens in Gudivada, providing subsidized meals for the poor. The initiative, started during Naidu's previous tenure in 2018, was halted during YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's government. Naidu announced plans to expand the program, spending Rs 200 crore annually.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday inaugurated an Anna Canteen at Gudivada in Krishna district, providing subsidized meals for the poor.

The initiative, aimed at ensuring no poor person goes hungry, began in 2018 under Naidu's tenure but became defunct during YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's government.

"After becoming the CM for the fourth time, starting a programme like Anna Canteen gives me immense pleasure," Naidu said. Accompanied by his wife, N Bhuvaneshwari, he served food and mingled with the beneficiaries.

Naidu announced that 100 canteens were inaugurated today, with plans for a total of 203 by September. The government will spend Rs 200 crore annually on the canteens, costing Rs 53 lakh per day.

Two donors, Bhuvaneswari and P Srinivasa Raju, have contributed Rs 1 crore each to the scheme. A bank account has been opened for more donations.

(With inputs from agencies.)