This paper examines the role of Indiramma Canteens in Hyderabad, Telangana, in providing affordable and nutritious food to economically weaker sections of the urban population. The scheme offers breakfast and lunch at a highly subsidised price of Rs. 5, thereby reducing the food expenditure burden on poor households. It also contributes to food security, saves the time of working women, and daily wage workers students and urban poor.  The study assesses the socio-economic benefits of the scheme along with its financial implications and implementation challenges for urban finance.