Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday directed officials to undertake renovation and modernisation works at Amma Canteens, also known as Unavagams, operating across the state.

The low-cost canteen scheme was originally introduced during the 2011-16 AIADMK government led by former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.

Amma Canteens launched in 2013 under Jayalalithaa government

The Amma Canteen initiative was launched on February 24, 2013, coinciding with Jayalalithaa’s birthday. The late AIADMK leader was widely referred to as “Amma” by party workers and supporters.

The first Amma Canteens began functioning in Chennai before the scheme was gradually expanded to other towns and cities across Tamil Nadu.

Chief Minister reviews complaints over food quality

According to an official release, the Chief Minister convened a review meeting with senior officials after receiving feedback that the taste and quality of food served at some Amma Canteens were not satisfactory.

During the meeting, Vijay instructed authorities to improve infrastructure and amenities at the canteens and ensure that quality food is served to the public.

The Chief Minister also ordered the procurement of additional cooking utensils and equipment as part of the revamp process aimed at improving the functioning of the outlets.

Officials were directed to focus on maintaining both the quality and taste of food supplied through the scheme.

More than 600 Amma Canteens functioning in Tamil Nadu

At present, 383 Amma Canteens operate under the control of the Greater Chennai Corporation.

In addition, 237 Amma Canteens are functioning under various other local bodies across the state, according to the official release.