H&UD Minister reviews food quality at Capital Hospital Aahar Centre

Bhubaneswar, July 19: Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krishnachandra Mahapatra made an unannounced visit to the food center located at Capital Hospital premises today.

During his visit, Minister Mahapatra personally purchased a meal coupon and dined alongside other patrons. He engaged with diners, seeking feedback on the food quality and their overall experience at the facility.

Dr. Mahapatra underscored the importance of maintaining cleanliness and ensuring high food standards at the center. He promptly directed the repair of a malfunctioning dishwashing machine. Speaking to the press, the minister affirmed the continuation of the food scheme, emphasizing its significance in serving the public interest. He mentioned the possibility of renaming the scheme in the future, as part of a review process.

Highlighting the government's commitment to providing nutritious meals in a hygienic environment, Dr. Mahapatra stressed the dignity of service for the underprivileged. He proposed involving self-help groups of mothers to enhance service quality, especially in light of increasing costs. The minister noted that the state subsidizes the meals, contributing ₹23 while patrons pay ₹5.

Initiated in April 2015 on Holy Uttara day, the affordable cooked food scheme currently operates 168 centers across 115 urban areas in the state. All centers and kitchens hold ISO certification and are geotagged, with 61 centers offering evening meals. The scheme provides one lakh meals daily. Dr. Mahapatra also instructed officials to maintain cleanliness rigorously and ensure adequate placement of dustbins at the center.