About the Scheme
A welfare scheme launched by the Government of Maharashtra to provide affordable and nutritious meals to the poor and needy citizens across the state, aiming to combat hunger and ensure food security for vulnerable populations.
Target Beneficiaries: 10 crore economically weaker sections, daily wage earners, migrant laborers, and students in Maharashtra accessing subsidized nutritious meals at ₹5-10 through Shiv Bhojan centers
Implementing Agency: Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection, Government of Maharashtra, in collaboration with local self-help groups and designated canteens.
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.