Amma Canteens Set For Upgrade

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has directed officials to improve Amma Canteens across the state after complaints over poor maintenance, ageing kitchen equipment and declining food quality. The government has asked authorities to refurbish canteen buildings, upgrade kitchen infrastructure, buy additional cooking vessels and ensure that food served to the public remains clean, tasty and consistent. The move brings fresh focus to one of Tamil Nadu’s most recognised welfare food schemes.

Low-Cost Meals Remain Key

Amma Canteens, also known as Amma Unavagam, were launched in 2013 by former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa to provide affordable meals to workers, senior citizens, migrant labourers and low-income families. The menu continues to attract public attention because of its highly subsidised prices, including ₹1 idlis, ₹3 curd rice and ₹5 sambar rice. At present, Tamil Nadu has 620 Amma Canteens, with 383 under the Greater Chennai Corporation and 237 operated by other local bodies. The latest upgrade plan is expected to strengthen the scheme’s role in providing affordable food to people in urban and local body areas.