Kolkata: West Bengal State Fishermens Cooperative Federation Ltd., popularly known as Benfish, is all set to expand its Ekushe Annapurna scheme in the city by opening up stalls in 23 more locations in the city. The scheme, under which rice, dal, vegetables and fish curry are served at Rs 21, has gained immense popularity in the city since its introduction in October 2016. The managing director of Benfish Bidhan Roy had written to Mayor Firhad Hakim in the month of June, urging him to provide space in the city so that the scheme can be extended. 23 places in the city have been identified and the Members, Mayor-in-Council who constitute the highest decision making body in the KMC, had already approved the locations. The matter will be placed for the final nod at the monthly meeting of the KMC scheduled on September 19. The locations that have been earmarked include Ruby connector, Mukundapur, the area below Gariahat flyover, Southern Avenue, Brabourne Road (near Passport office), Maniktala Main Road, S C Mallick Road (near Jadavpur bus stand), inside the premises of KMC and an area near Tollygunge Metro station to name a few. "We have found out that this scheme has been very popular, particularly among the office-goers. Every day, thousands of people from the rural areas come to the city for their daily work, who look for rice and fish meal at a subsidised rate as they cannot afford to spend much on their food. The Ekushe Annapurna scheme is the best option for them," said state Fisheries minister Chandranath Sinha. The spaces that have been allocated for setting up the stalls are 100 square feet each in size and the mode of allotment will be at the rate of Re 1 per square feet per month on licence basis for a 12 month period, with the provision of further renewal. The scheme is the brainchild of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who wants to offer quality and nutritious food to all the people of the state. It is run on a no-profit, no-loss basis. At present there are 20 vehicles on wheels that provide quality and hygienic meals under this project at a subsidised rate.

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