Aam Aadmi Canteen a hit on first day, sees footfall of 400

"It is such a sign of relief that I do not have to wander for food on the streets outside. Nutritious food is now available in the hospital that suits my pocket easily," said Meena, an attendant.

A separate counter for buying meal tokens has been set up in the hospital premises giving ease to the people. The canteen provides a proper balanced diet to the attendants of the patients, visitors and staff of the hospital.

The canteen witnessed a footfall of approximately 400 people on the first day after it was inaugurated on Thursday by Delhi Health minister Satyendar Jain.

Dr Kiran Deewan, a Senior Dietician with the hospital said: "This idea is based on a no-profit-no-loss system. Especially, the attendants are relieved after this. They will no longer have to starve themselves."

"Buying outside food is difficult and expensive for the attendants and staff. The canteen prices fit in everybody's budget," she added.

The canteen provides a proper nutritious diet containing 30 gms of dal, 200 gms of green vegetable, 25 gms of rice (1 small bowl) and 50 gms of roti (2 rotis).

The fully-automated kitchen has good space and has a huge roti making machine and other commercial utensils. Proper hygiene being the main concern of the authorities is taken good care of.

"I keep a proper check on the cleanliness of the machines and utensils. Also, I have an eye on everything which is being cooked in the kitchen," said Dashrat, head cook of the dietary department.

Arvind Singh, another attendant said: "After spending hours in the hospital attending my wife, I used to find it hard arranging for meal for myself but now I feel so good having a good meal that fills me up from the hospital canteen itself."

Meanwhile, Health Minister Satyendar Jain tweeted: "Aam Aadmi Canteen pilot project started at LNH hospital. Rs 10 per meal for all attendants, staff & people visiting the hospital.