Aahar Scheme Irregularities in Rourkela: Poor Charged ₹10 Instead of ₹5

Rourkela: Odisha’s flagship subsidised meal program “Aahar” is facing serious irregularities in Rourkela.

Despite clear government directives to provide a full meal of rice, dalma, and pickle at Rs 5, several centres are charging Rs 10 and offering two types of plates—small for Rs 5 and large for Rs 10.

Beneficiaries allege poor hygiene, reused plates, and limited drinking water facilities.

Reports suggest that across bus stands, hospitals, and busy public areas, nearly 5,200 meals are distributed daily, but many poor citizens are forced to pay double the mandated price.

The government subsidises Rs 2 of the actual Rs 27 meal cost, leaving only Rs 5 to be paid by beneficiaries.

However, the violation of this rule has sparked outrage. Complaints have reached officials, with the Rourkela Municipal Corporation’s deputy commissioner promising investigations and strict action against violators.

This exposes systemic lapses in monitoring welfare schemes, raising questions about accountability and the exploitation of vulnerable communities