Archive · 31 Jan 2026
Delhi Installs Retina Scanners in Atal Canteens
The Delhi government has put in special cameras that scan people's eyes at Atal Canteens.
These canteens give cheap and healthy food to people who need it.
The cameras help make sure that one person doesn't get more than one meal a day.
Right now, there are 86 of these canteens, and the government plans to open more near hospitals and schools.
The food costs just 5 rupees and includes things like bread, rice, and vegetables.
The canteens are open in the morning and evening, and each one can serve up to 500 meals at lunch and dinner time.
Delhi government installed retina-scanning cameras in Atal Canteens to prevent multiple meal purchases by the same person.
The technology updates a centralized system to track meal purchases across all canteens.
Currently, there are 86 Atal Canteens, with plans to open 16 more this year.
New canteens will be located near hospitals and universities to cater to patients, attendants, and students.
The government has allocated Rs 100 crore for the scheme, aiming to set up 100 canteens across the city.
- Who
- Delhi government
- What
- Installed retina-scanning cameras in Atal Canteens
- When
- Not specified
- Where
- Delhi, India
- Why
- To prevent multiple meal purchases and ensure subsidized food reaches more beneficiaries
- Technology Used
- Retina-scanning cameras
- Purpose
- Prevent multiple meal purchases by the same person
- Number of Canteens
- 86 currently, with 16 more planned
- Meal Cost
- Rs 5 per plate
- Operating Hours
- Lunch: 11 am to 4 pm, Dinner: 6.30 pm to 9.30 pm
- Daily Plate Limit
- 500 plates for lunch and dinner per canteen
- Budget Allocation
- Rs 100 crore
- Target Beneficiaries
- Economically weaker sections