An Affordable Meal Scheme For The Poor In Maharashtra

The Shiv Bhojan Thali Yojana is one of the most impactful welfare schemes launched by the Government of Maharashtra, aiming to provide affordable and nutritious meals to the underprivileged section of society. The initiative reflects the state’s commitment toward food security and social equality.

When Was Shiv Bhojan Thali Yojana Launched?

The Shiv Bhojan Thali Yojana was officially launched on January 26, 2020, coinciding with Republic Day, by the Government of Maharashtra under the leadership of then-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

Who Started the Shiv Bhojan Scheme?

The scheme was introduced by the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, a coalition comprising:

The primary face of the scheme was Uddhav Thackeray, then CM of Maharashtra, who envisioned it as a step toward eliminating hunger and supporting the economically weaker sections.

Objective of Shiv Bhojan Yojana

The main goal of the Shiv Bhojan Yojana is:

“To ensure that no person in Maharashtra sleeps hungry due to financial hardship.”

The scheme is especially beneficial for:

Meal Cost and Menu

Under this scheme, a complete meal (thali) is provided at a highly subsidized rate.

Original Pricing:

During COVID-19 Pandemic:

Menu Includes:

Note: The menu may slightly vary based on local availability and nutritional standards.

Where Is Shiv Bhojan Thali Available?

The scheme is implemented through Shiv Bhojan Kendras – community kitchens set up at:

Government hospitals
Bus stands
Railway stations
Municipal zones
Public markets

By 2022, over 900 Shiv Bhojan centers had been set up across districts of Maharashtra. The number continues to grow based on demand and public feedback.

How Does the Shiv Bhojan Thali Yojana Work?

Implementation Process:

The state government collaborates with local self-help groups, NGOs, and catering contractors.
Kitchens are set up where the meals are prepared hygienically.
The government subsidizes the cost, and the public pays only a nominal fee.
Daily monitoring and audits ensure quality and accountability.

Impact of Shiv Bhojan Thali Yojana

Over 10 crore meals served as of early 2023
Played a critical role during COVID-19 lockdown, ensuring meals to thousands of stranded individuals
Helped in reducing urban hunger
Boosted employment indirectly via kitchen staff, delivery workers, and food suppliers

Funding and Budget

The Government of Maharashtra allocates a separate budget for the Shiv Bhojan Scheme. The cost per meal is much higher than what beneficiaries pay, but the difference is borne by the state.

On average:

Actual cost per meal: Rs. 45–Rs.50
Public pays: Rs.5–Rs.10
State subsidy: Rs.35–Rs.45 per meal

Future Plans and Expansion

The scheme has been praised by social activists and the public alike. There are ongoing discussions about:

Increasing the number of centers in rural areas
Introducing mobile Shiv Bhojan vans in slum areas
Adding breakfast options
Collaborating with local farmers to source fresh produce

Conclusion

The Shiv Bhojan Thali Yojana is more than just a food scheme – it’s a powerful statement by the Maharashtra government that hunger should never be a barrier to human dignity. With its continued success and expansion, the scheme is paving the way for more inclusive and hunger-free governance in the state.

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