The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), which launched the subsidised Rs.5 meal scheme for the poor last year, has decided to seek the involvement of citizens for the concept.
The civic body, which provides a subsidy of Rs.15 for each plate that costs Rs.20 and serves the meals at around 20 meals centres, is now looking for contributions from those interested in joining the scheme. The sponsors will have the option of deciding the number of plates they choose to pay for.
On its part, the GHMC will press into service mobile meals facility that will be made available at a location preferred by the sponsors on the selected day. Even the name, details and photos if requested of the sponsor, will be prominently displayed on the vehicle.
“It could be a special occasion in the family such as a birthday or marriage anniversary and they can sponsor for that day. This is an opportunity for citizens to celebrate their special moments with the less fortunate,” says the GHMC Commissioner and Special Officer, Somesh Kumar.
Those making a contribution to the scheme also have the option of personally being available and serving the meals on the day of their sponsorship.
Based on the contribution, a certificate signed by the Commissioner, Minister or even the Chief Minister, will be provided as a mark of appreciation for the gesture. “The concept part has already been developed and arrangements such as display units for the mobile meal vans and software to facilitate online booking are being put in place to launch the concept in the coming weeks,” he says.
Once launched, those wishing to sponsor the meals for the poor through the subsidised scheme could book the day of their choice and make payments online, adds Mr. Somesh Kumar.
