AP strengthens governance framework to enhance quality, transparency in Anna Canteens

Andhra Pradesh Government has issued orders for the constitution of Anna Canteen Level Advisory Committees across the State, aimed at strengthening community oversight and ensuring efficient and transparent functioning.

Each committee will consist of a chairman nominated by the district in-charge Minister (Municipal Chairperson or Corporator/Councillor as Chairman), the Ward Sanitation & Environment Secretary, Ward Women & Weaker Sections Protection Secretary, one representative from a local NGO, one representative from an SHG/town level federation, and the designated Nodal Officer of the respective Anna Canteen as member-convener. The constitution of the Anna canteen advisory committee is based on the directions of the Chief Minister to ensure community oversight and improvement of quality of food in the Anna canteens

These committees will be responsible for monitoring hygiene, food safety, punctual functioning, technology-enabled surveillance, feedback capture, grievance resolution, and ensuring that service delivery remains consistent with notified standards. They will also facilitate local community participation, donor mobilization, and awareness initiatives to reinforce the social objectives envisioned for the programme.

During a recent review on Anna Canteens, chaired by Principal Secretary, Municipal Administration & Urban Development Department S. Suresh Kumar, the operational performance of Anna Canteens and improvement areas were examined in detail with the Commissioner & Director of Municipal Administration and the CEO of Anna Canteen Charitable Trust.

The Principal Secretary emphasized that Anna Canteens are a vital welfare mechanism supporting urban workers, students, elderly persons, and vulnerable communities, and stated that the Chief Minister has clearly directed that welfare delivery must uphold dignity, quality, and reliability at all times.

“Anna Canteens are a crucial welfare support for the urban workforce, students, elderly persons, and vulnerable communities. The Chief Minister has emphasized that welfare must uphold dignity and reliability. These Committees, along with enhanced monitoring tools and local accountability, will ensure improved responsiveness and sustained quality in operations.” said Suresh Kumar.