Table of Contents
Amma Unavagam — Rs 1-5 meal scheme in Tamil Nadu (2026)
Hot meals at Re 1 (idli) to Rs 5 (rice items) at 600+ Amma canteens across Tamil Nadu.
State: Tamil Nadu · Launched: 2013 · Issued by: Tamil Nadu Govt — Civil Supplies
Who is eligible
- Open to all (no eligibility check)
- Walk-in to any Amma Unavagam
- Cash payment at counter
- Menu varies by time of day
What you get
Idli Re 1 each, sambar rice / curd rice / lemon rice Rs 5 each, chapati + dal Rs 3, dosa Rs 5 (some locations). Operating 7am-10pm typically.
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Walk into any Amma Unavagam — Map at canteens.tn.gov.in.
- Pay at counter — cash — No coupons.
- Get token — Hot meal served immediately.
Timeline
On-the-spot serving.
Portal + helpline
- Official portal: canteens.tn.gov.in
- Helpline: TN Civil Supplies: 044-25670451
Common issues
- Canteen closed mid-day — check timings.
- Long queues — peak meal times 12-2pm + 7-9pm.
- Quality issues — file complaint at District Collectorate.
- Some canteens shut due to renovation — check status.
Benefit delayed or rejected? File an RTI
Most “delays” or “rejections” clear within 7-15 days of an RTI being filed. Use this 5-question template:
1. Status of my application no. _____ dated _____ as on date. 2. Name + designation of dealing officer assigned to my file. 3. Reasons for delay beyond the statutory timeline. 4. Copy of any noting / movement of my file in the past 30 days. 5. Likely date of disbursement / decision.
Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the AI RTI Drafter →
More schemes for you: All unorganised workers schemes
Frequently asked questions
Truly subsidized?
Yes — Tamil Nadu Govt absorbs ~70% of cost. Sustained since 2013.
Open to outsiders?
Yes — no eligibility check. Tourists welcome.
Quality complaints?
File at District Collectorate + RTI for inspection reports.
Are subsidies political?
Cross-party support since 2013; continuity has held.
Summary + next step
Bottom line: Hot meals at Re 1 (idli) to Rs 5 (rice items) at 600+ Amma canteens across Tamil Nadu. Apply at canteens.tn.gov.in. If delayed beyond timeline, file an RTI — most cases clear within 15 days.
- Apply now: canteens.tn.gov.in
- If delayed — RTI Drafter: File RTI in 5 minutes
- Browse all yojanas: Sarkari Yojana index
Related
Last reviewed: 26 April 2026.

