Kochi: The Kochi Municipal Corporation has launched its Indira Canteen initiative, offering affordable meals throughout the day for just ₹50. The first outlet was opened at the corporation’s zonal office in Edappally as part of the mayor’s 50-day action programme announced after the new administration assumed office.

The canteen was inaugurated by Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan, who said the project could serve as a model for the entire state.

The facility will operate from 8 am to 8 pm, with full-fledged operations beginning Monday. The civic body also plans to open another Indira Canteen soon.

Under the scheme, breakfast and dinner will cost ₹10 each, while lunch will be priced at ₹30, allowing a person to have three meals a day for ₹50. The Edappally canteen has been set up using CSR funds from IDBI Bank.

Mayor VK Minimol, who presided over the function, said the initiative ensures that anyone with ₹50 can have a full day’s meals. She added that the canteens will be operated under the corporation’s “Samriddhi” project, which the civic body aims to develop into a global brand.

Welfare Standing Committee chairman Antony Painuthara presented the project details at the event.

Among those who attended the function were MP Hibi Eden, MLAs K. Babu and Uma Thomas, Muhammed Shiyas, deputy mayor Deepak Joy, Jamal Manakkadan, former MLA Dominic Presentation, corporation standing committee members and other officials.

The launch of Indira Canteens, aimed at providing meals at highly subsidised rates, was one of the key promises made by the civic administration as part of its welfare initiatives.