Penukonda: State Minister for BC, EWS Welfare, Handlooms and Textiles, S Savitha, on Monday said that Anna Canteens are functioning as a vital support system for the poor by providing affordable meals three times a day across Andhra Pradesh.
Speaking at the inauguration of a government-run Anna Canteen in Penukonda, the minister stated that the initiative was launched with the objective of ensuring that no poor person goes hungry.
She noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, the state has established 269 Anna Canteens, benefiting nearly 2.72 lakh people every day, including daily wage workers and economically weaker sections.
Savitha highlighted that the scheme fulfills a key electoral promise and reflects the government’s commitment to welfare despite financial constraints.
She alleged that the previous administration had discontinued the canteens, adversely affecting the poor, and said the current government has revived them promptly after assuming office.
The minister also recalled her personal efforts in sustaining an Anna Canteen in Penukonda for over 1,000 days using her own funds, following a call from the Chief Minister to support the initiative during challenging times. Despite alleged obstacles, she said the canteen continued to serve meals to the needy, countering criticism about its sustainability.
Criticizing the previous regime, Savitha accused it of neglecting the needs of the poor by shutting down such welfare schemes.
She reiterated that the present government is prioritizing public welfare and inclusive development.
Member of Parliament BK Parthasarathi and MLA MS Raju, who is also the district president of the TDP, were present at the inauguration, along with officials, public representatives, and party workers.
In a separate interaction with the media, the minister announced plans to establish another Anna Canteen in Gorantla using her personal funds. She also mentioned that Nara Bhuvaneswari had contributed Rs. 76 lakh to provide free meals and breakfast for a day across all Anna Canteens in the state on the occasion of the Chief Minister’s birthday.
Savitha said the expansion of Anna Canteens would continue with the aim of addressing hunger and supporting vulnerable communities across the State.
