The State Government is reportedly seeking the help of BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) for expanding its popular Rs 10 thali, now known as “Shiv Bhojan” to mobile canteens made out of existing buses. It is said that the government has currently asked for two buses, while there could be more implemented based on the demand.
This meal plan is currently available in canteens of district collectorate office and municipal corporations in around 112 locations across the state. This plan was officially implemented on the 26th of January, 2020 as a pilot project and will soon be expanded to other locations of the city in order to make it more accessible to all.
Also Read: Maha Vikas Aghadi's 'Shiv Bhojan' scheme gets good response
It’s worth noting that BEST operates mobile canteens of its own near Mantralaya in South Mumbai. Speaking on this proposal, a spokesperson for BEST said “BEST is considering the proposal positively and a decision will be taken soon.”
The goal of Shiv Bhojan meal plan is to provide affordable food to everyone, regardless of their religion or status in society. It is estimated that the thali costs Rs 35 to make in rural areas and Rs 50 in urban regions. The difference in amount is expected to be reimbursed to the district collectorates through a government grant.
For Rs 10, the thali offers a portion of rice, dal, vegetable sabzi, and two chapatis. The quality is said to be fairly decent, although the time of operations remains a concern for many. Canteens that offer Shiv Bhojan thalis only operate between 12 PM to 2 PM.
There has been a call for the extension of the working hours so that it can serve more people. It is said that each canteen prepares around 500 thalis per day, so if an extension of time is required, the volume of thalis offered each day needs to be increased as well.
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