TNI Bureau: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari appears to have struck a chord with the masses through the launch of the ₹5 rice-fish curry meal scheme, known as ‘Maa Kitchen’, which is rapidly gaining popularity across the state.

The ‘Maa Kitchen’ initiative, aimed at providing affordable and nutritious meals to workers, daily wage earners, students and low-income families, has witnessed massive public response since its rollout. Long queues have been reported at several centres, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas, where people are availing freshly cooked rice and fish curry at a highly subsidised price.

The BJP government has projected the scheme as a “people-first welfare model” designed to address rising food costs and support economically vulnerable sections. Officials claim the programme is not only ensuring food security but also generating employment opportunities through local self-help groups and community kitchens.

Political observers say the scheme carries both economic and emotional appeal in Bengal, where fish and rice remain central to everyday food culture. Supporters believe the initiative has helped strengthen Suvendu Adhikari’s grassroots image, while the opposition has questioned the long-term financial sustainability of the programme.

Despite the criticism, the ₹5 rice-fish curry scheme is emerging as one of the government’s most talked-about welfare initiatives in recent months.