In a strategic synergy to revitalize its public welfare programs and champion local industry, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is planning to merge two key state initiatives. Under a new proposal, the underutilized spaces of the subsidized Indira Canteens will be transformed into retail points for the beloved state brand, Nandini. This integration will see the Karnataka Milk Federation's (KMF) extensive range of dairy products made readily available at these established community food centers, promising to boost both the canteens' financial health and Nandini's market visibility.
GBA Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao confirmed that the authority is studying the possibility and is preparing a comprehensive proposal for government approval soon.
The Rationale: Utilizing Idle Hours
The plan addresses several issues currently plaguing the Indira Canteen scheme, which provides highly subsidized meals to the working class:
- Underutilization of Space: Indira Canteens currently operate only during scheduled meal times (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). For the rest of the day, the valuable real estate in most wards remains locked and unused.
- Boosting Revenue: By leasing or contracting the space to KMF for running Nandini parlours, the GBA aims to generate additional revenue to help offset the substantial subsidies (several crores of rupees) the authority spends on the canteens, addressing issues of falling footfall and low income.
- Public Benefit: The move would benefit the public by increasing the accessibility of Nandini's extensive range of high-quality dairy products—from milk and curd to ice cream, flavoured milk, and sweets—in neighborhood locations where Indira Canteens are already well-established.
State Brand Support
The move also aligns with the state government's commitment to supporting the local Nandini brand, which holds immense cultural and economic value in Karnataka. The integration into Indira Canteens, a key public welfare project of the Congress government, creates a synergy between two major state-backed initiatives.
Next Steps
While the proposal has been confirmed by GBA Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao, it awaits final approval from the state government. If sanctioned, the GBA will proceed with the necessary arrangements to allow the Karnataka Milk Federation to set up and operate their parlours within the canteen premises, ensuring the continued operation of the subsidized meal services alongside the new commercial venture.
The GBA is hopeful that this hybrid model will maximize the utility of the canteen infrastructure and enhance the financial sustainability of the program.
