Pics: Kevin Rodrigues
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, May 8: The lockdown has created hardships for the people suffer even leading to starvation for an entire day in some cases. However, many generous organizations came forward to provide meals to migrant workers and stranded people.
Ranjan Kalkura, a businessman extended support in a big and unique way by providing food thrice a day to the hungry in the city. Ranjan Kalkura is no other than the proprietor of the Kalkura group here.
Realizing the plight of the migrant workers and labourers, Kalkura provided free meals thrice day through Indira Canteen to the needy.
The Udupi district administration approved the plan and allowed Kalkura to proceed with his plan. Morning breakfast, afternoon lunch and evening dinner are now being served by Ranjan Kalkura through Indira Canteen.
Speaking with daijiworld.com about his idea of providing free food, he said, "I feel the satisfaction doing this service. I was a person who used to work every day. But after the announcement of the lockdown, I wanted to do some work and thought of doing this as a service. I feel satisfied to see the happy faces of the people. This is my small way of giving back to society. Hunger makes people angry which in turn leads to quarrels. I have been supplying kitchen equipment to Indira Canteen in 10 districts of Karnataka. We provide food observing all the safety measures."
Hands are washed at a foot-operated sink. The volunteers are watchful about maintaining social distancing. Sanitizers are also arranged in the premises. With all the necessary safety measures in place, this project is a proven relief activity for the hungry.
Some generous people have joined hands with me in this service. Respectfully accepting whatever amount they can donate, we provide sweets and fruits to the people along with meals and breakfast.
Ranjan Kalkura every day bears the entire cost of the food. He serves the food at Indira Canteen, Udupi. The staff of the canteen also wear masks and use sanitizers while serving the food.
Every day, more than 600 people come here for their meals. The Udupi district Commissioner, G Jagadeesh has also applauded this move of Ranjan Kalkura and has urged other businessmen to also come forward and engage in this type of community activity.
This successful combined private and government partnership has proved to be a good move in the district. The government should start thinking of implementing this project in other districts of Karnataka as well.