The YSR Congress party government headed by chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, which closed down Anna Canteens which used to provide sumptuous meal to the poor at Rs 5 a plate thrice a day with from August 1, is most likely to restart the same from September 1.
The Jagan government has faced severe criticism over closure of Anna Canteens on the pretext that they involved huge corruption during the Telugu Desam Party regime.
Setting aside the allegations of corruption, the canteens have become a big hit among the poor and lower middle class, especially working labourers and low-class employees.
For the last few days, the people have been agitating for reopening of the canteens and the TDP leaders are cashing in on their disgruntlement.
Apparently realizing that the move to wind up Anna Canteens had turned out to be counter-productive, the state government is now planning to reopen the canteens with certain modifications.
Already, the yellow colour of the canteens has been changed to white and probably, they will get some green touch soon reflecting the party colour of YSRC.
Secondly, the name of the canteens also is likely to be changed as Rajanna Canteens.
Thirdly, the menu is also likely to be changed slightly so as to improve its quality and also add some more items.
May be, the government is planning to increase the cost of the meal slightly, sources said.
The Akshaya Patra Foundation, which was entrusted with the task of cooking and supplying the meals, has been sounded that the scheme will be reintroduced in September.
However, it is not known whether the government will open the same number of canteens or increase the number.
