Gurugram : At a time when the cost of living continues to rise, Haryana’s Labour Department is providing a much-needed relief to workers and low-income families through its Antyodaya Aahar Yojana, under which a wholesome vegetarian meal is being served for just Rs 10.
The subsidised food scheme aims to ensure that no worker or needy person goes hungry due to financial constraints. Under the initiative, 28 labour canteens have been established across the state, where nutritious and hygienic food is made available at an affordable price.
The Labour Department has expanded the network of canteens across Haryana to provide easy access to quality meals for daily wage earners, industrial workers and other economically weaker sections.
In Gurugram, the scheme is currently operational at Rajiv Chowk, ESI Dispensary Sector-5 and Udyog Vihar Phase -3, where hundreds of workers and commuters are benefiting from the low-cost meal service every day.
A daily wage labourer at Rajiv Chowk, Rajesh Kumar, said the canteen has become a lifeline for many workers. “Getting a proper meal for just Rs 10 is a big relief. Outside, even a simple lunch costs five to six times more. The food is fresh and filling,” he said.
Similarly, Subodh, an industrial worker from Udyog Vihar, said the facility helps workers save money while ensuring they get nutritious food. “Many labourers come from different states and struggle with rising expenses. This scheme is very helpful for us,” he added.
“The scheme is proving beneficial for workers as it provides nutritious and quality food at a nominal cost. I usually have my lunch here and am satisfied with the quality of the meals served,” said Tripti Devi, a labourer.
Rajesh Nain, deputy director from the Labour Department said the objective of the Antyodaya Aahar Yojana is to provide healthy and hygienic food at highly subsidised rates while improving food security for workers and economically weaker sections.
“The government is committed to ensuring that affordable meals are available near workplaces and industrial areas so that workers can access quality food without financial burden,” the official said.
The initiative has emerged as an important social welfare measure, helping thousands of workers across Haryana access nutritious meals while reducing their daily living expenses.