Gadag's 'Butti' Center Provides Lifeline with Rs 5 Meals Amid LPG Shortage Crisis
In the wake of a severe shortage of LPG cylinders, both domestic and commercial, many eateries in Gadag are struggling to serve the public. This crisis, exacerbated by global tensions such as the West Asia conflict, has led to soaring meal prices in local hotels, with costs ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 150 per meal—a sum unaffordable for the poor and daily wage laborers.
Affordable Solution Launched by KH Patil Foundation
To address this critical situation, the KH Patil Foundation and Rural Medical Service Society have launched 'Butti', a 'free from hunger' service in Gadag. This initiative was inaugurated on March 16 to mark the 101st birth anniversary of veteran leader KH Patil, with the service located near the KH Patil Institute of Medical Sciences (KHPIMS), Gadag. The primary aim is to provide a nutritious meal at just Rs 5 to all, including caregivers of patients, students, laborers, and other needy individuals.
Brainchild of Minister HK Patil
Dr Veman Sawakar, secretary of the Rural Medical Service Society, revealed that the service was the brainchild of Minister HK Patil, who envisioned providing affordable food to the underprivileged. "We decided to start Butti service in Gadag to combat hunger during these tough times," he said. A dedicated building spanning 3,000 square feet was constructed at a cost of Rs 50 lakh to facilitate this service.
Since its launch, the Butti center has been serving 350-400 people daily. The menu includes a variety of rice-based items such as pulav, rice bath, vangi bath, masala rice, and rice sambar, with no limits on servings—ensuring everyone gets sufficient food for just Rs 5. Dr Sawakar added, "If there is demand, we can extend this service to night hours as well."
Steam Cooking Technology Ensures Continuity
Despite the LPG cylinder shortage, the service is equipped to continue uninterrupted. The new building features advanced steam cooking technology that can operate using electricity, providing a reliable alternative. "Minister HK Patil has directed that this service should not stop once started," Dr Sawakar emphasized. A dedicated team, including one main cook, three assistant cooks, a helper, a manager, and an assistant manager, ensures smooth operations.
Positive Impact on Hospital Visitors and Students
Dr Basavaraj Bommanahalli, director of KHPIMS, Gadag, praised the initiative, noting that he personally tried the meals and found them tasty and healthy. "This service is a boon for caregivers accompanying patients to our hospital," he said. With 1,250 to 1,500 outpatients visiting daily, each often accompanied by 2-3 persons, the Butti center provides much-needed relief. Additionally, students from nursing and paramedical departments are benefiting from this affordable meal option.
Community Applauds the Initiative
Many visitors have expressed gratitude, highlighting that local hotels charge Rs 90 to 150 for a meal, and even a simple plate of idli-vada with tea costs Rs 30 to 40. In contrast, the Butti service offers a wholesome meal at Rs 5, earning widespread acclaim for the KH Patil Foundation's efforts in supporting the community during this challenging period.
