Maharashtra Shiv Bhojan Scheme aims to provide affordable meals to the needy. Through this Rs. 10 Meal Canteen Initiative, the state government offers a "Shiv Thali" to vulnerable citizens for just 10 rupees. This food program honors Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a king celebrated for his commitment to the welfare of the poor. Additionally, the Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Anna-rath food vans operate across the state as part of this meal initiative.
Maharashtra Shiv Bhojan Scheme 2026 Latest Updates
The Maharashtra government discontinued the provision of free meals under the Shiv Bhojan Thali Scheme effective October 1, 2021. Per the official government circular, meals are now priced at Rs. 10, and parcel services for the thali were also suspended as of that date.
A standard Shiv Bhojan thali consists of two chapatis, a vegetable curry, a serving of rice, and dal. This meal was provided at no cost until September 30, 2021, transitioning to the Rs. 10 rate on October 1, 2021. This policy shift was confirmed by Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal.
Minister Bhujbal explained that the free meal initiative, initially launched for one month on April 15, was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the "Break the Chain" relief package, former CM Uddhav Thackeray authorized free meals to support the vulnerable population. Prior to the free meal period, the price had been reduced from Rs. 10 to Rs. 5.
Data from the Food and Civil Supplies Department indicates that laborers, farmers, and migrants were the primary beneficiaries during the pandemic. While the actual cost to the government is Rs. 45 per plate in urban areas and Rs. 35 in rural regions, the end-user price remains fixed at Rs. 10 for the underprivileged.
The Rs. 10 Shiv Bhojan Thali 2026
The Shiv Bhojan Scheme was initiated by former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to ensure affordable nutrition for the poor. Operated via the Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Anna-rath initiative, the state subsidizes the meal costs, covering the difference between the Rs