Shiv Bhojan Thali – Maharashtra

✦Key Features

• Meals offered at a highly subsidized rate (e.g., Rs. 10 per thali for citizens, with state subsidy).
• Designated Shiv Bhojan centres/canteens established across cities and districts.
• Each thali typically includes chapati, vegetables, dal, and rice, providing a balanced meal.
• Available during specific lunch hours at all operational centres.
• State government provides substantial subsidies to the operators of these centres to maintain affordability.

✓Eligibility Criteria

• All citizens residing in Maharashtra are eligible to avail the meal.
• Primarily targets daily wage earners, migrant laborers, students, and economically weaker sections.
• No specific income or identity criteria are strictly enforced for availing the meal directly.

★Benefits

• Access to a healthy, hygienic, and affordable meal for the underprivileged.
• Reduces the financial burden of food expenses for the poor and vulnerable.
• Contributes to improved nutritional intake and a reduction in hunger.
• Supports the livelihoods of daily wage earners by ensuring their basic food needs are met.

▶Application Process

• Identify the nearest designated Shiv Bhojan Kendra (centre) in your locality.
• Visit the Kendra during its operational hours, usually during lunch time.
• Pay the nominal prescribed amount (e.g., Rs. 10) at the counter.
• Receive and consume the Shiv Bhojan Thali meal on the premises.

₹ Budget Allocation

170

Funding Ratio (Centre:State): 100% State Government of Maharashtra.

Historical Context

Launched on January 26, 2020, to provide meals at ₹10, later reduced to ₹5 during the COVID-19 lockdown to support migrants.