West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari launched a new subsidised meal scheme offering fish-and-rice meals for Rs 5 at 400 government-run canteens across the state.
Adhikari made the announcement during an administrative meeting in Kalyani, stating that the initiative aims to make nutritious meals accessible to all while preserving Bengal’s cultural food identity. The scheme expands the popular subsidised canteen network introduced under the previous government’s ‘Maa’ initiative.
The announcement follows earlier political debates over Bengal’s dietary traditions. During the Assembly election campaign, Trinamool Congress leaders accused the BJP of planning to ban fish, meat, and eggs if elected. Adhikari’s move directly addresses those concerns, reaffirming that the BJP respects Bengal’s culinary heritage.
At the meeting, Adhikari said the canteens would serve fish and rice meals at Rs 5, continuing the state’s commitment to affordable food programs. The government plans to roll out the scheme across districts, ensuring wide coverage and consistent quality.
The original ‘Maa’ canteens, launched in 2021, served rice, dal, vegetables, and egg curry at Rs 5. The new version adds fish to the menu, symbolising Bengal’s deep-rooted cultural connection with maach-bhaat.
