Kolkata, May 26, 2026: In a significant move aimed at catering to local food preferences, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Tuesday that the state government will introduce fish-and-rice meals at government-run canteens twice a week at a highly subsidised rate of ₹5.
The initiative will be implemented across approximately 400 Maa Canteens operated by the state government. These canteens, which already provide affordable meals, will now expand their menu to include the classic Bengali staple maach-bhaat (fish and rice) on two days every week.
Speaking during an administrative review meeting in Kalyani and later at a public event, Chief Minister Adhikari highlighted the decision as part of the government’s commitment to making nutritious and culturally relevant food accessible to the common people, particularly daily wage workers, labourers, and low-income groups.
The move expands the existing subsidised meal scheme, which previously focused mainly on egg-rice and vegetarian options. Detailed guidelines regarding the specific days of the week and variations in the menu are expected to be issued shortly.
This announcement comes alongside other welfare initiatives rolled out by the new government. These include the launch of the Annapurna Yojana, under which eligible women will receive ₹3,000 monthly financial assistance, with application forms becoming available from May 27. The government has also announced stricter regulations on liquor shops, prohibiting them near schools, colleges, and places of worship.
The decision to include fish in the subsidised meals is being viewed as a direct response to political debates during the 2026 Assembly elections, where concerns were raised about potential restrictions on fish and meat consumption under a BJP-led government. By promoting this quintessential Bengali dish at an affordable price, the administration aims to reinforce its alignment with the state’s food culture and traditions.
Implementation of the fish-and-rice meal scheme is likely to begin soon, further strengthening the network of affordable dining options for the masses in West Bengal.
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