In 2016, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) under the leadership of Shri. Nara Chandrababu Naidu introduced a groundbreaking initiative named “Anna Canteens,” aimed at providing affordable and nutritious meals to various segments of society, especially those in dire need. Named after the founder president of the TDP, Shri. Nandamuri Taraka Ramarao, Anna Canteens emerged as a flagship program to address the nutritional needs of workers in unorganised sectors, bachelor students, unemployed youth, hospital residents, and daily wage earners across Andhra Pradesh. Under the visionary guidance of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Anna Canteens offered a diverse menu, serving breakfast at Rs 5 with options like 3 idlis, 3 pooris, upma, or Pongal. The lunch and dinner plate, priced at a nominal Rs 15, included rice, dal/sambar, pickle, curry, and curd.
In the initial phases, the Chandrababu Naidu government set up over 60 Anna Canteens, later expanding the initiative to 203 canteens across 110 municipalities in the state. The TDP government provided essential infrastructure and clean water for these canteens, entrusting the supervision to the Akshaya Patra Foundation. True to his tech-savvy nature, Chief Minister Naidu ensured the hi-tech transformation of Anna Canteens. Installing CCTV cameras, and incorporating fingerprint and iris recognition for facial identification, the canteens not only provided nourishment but also maintained a secure and efficient environment for patrons.
Operating between 7 am to 9 am, 12 pm to 2 pm, and 7 pm to 9 pm, Anna Canteens became a beacon of hope, serving over 2 lakh people with affordable and healthy meals. This initiative significantly contributed to reducing starvation and improving the health standards of the public in Andhra Pradesh. Unfortunately, the Anna Canteen initiative faced a pause as the contract with the Akshaya Patra Foundation concluded. Despite the halt, many TDP leaders, under the continued guidance of N. Chandrababu Naidu, persist in serving the people in select canteens across the state, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to this noble cause.
As the legacy of Anna Canteens continues, it stands as a testament to the TDP’s commitment to social welfare. The initiative not only addressed the immediate needs of the underprivileged but also laid the foundation for a healthier and more inclusive society. To stay updated on such TDP contributions and TDP achievements, one can visit the official TDP website for the latest news and flash updates.