Lucknow, April 4: The ‘Didi Cafe’ initiative, launched by the Adani Foundation in the Madihaan area of Mirzapur district, is addressing the lack of clean and affordable food in rural areas while also paving the way for women’s employment and self-reliance.
Access to clean and quality food is often a significant challenge in small towns and rural areas of Uttar Pradesh. To tackle this issue, the Adani Foundation has established the ‘Didi Cafe’ in Madihaan, which is emerging as a successful model for women’s empowerment and local employment.
According to the 2011 census, the female work population ratio in Mirzapur stands at approximately 22.7%, highlighting limited employment opportunities in rural areas. The cafe, initiated through the ‘Beti Bachao Self-Help Group,’ has not only provided women with a regular source of income but has also been a crucial step towards their economic independence.
The cafe is managed by ten women from the ‘Beti Bachao’ self-help group. Under the leadership of President Rinku Devi, Secretary Bittan, and Treasurer Jai Lalita, women including Soni, Zahra Begum, Najbul, Sairun, Hasina Begum, Sona Begum, and Parvati handle all operations. A male chef has also been appointed to maintain food quality and taste.
These women from Devari Kala village are responsible for cooking, serving, and cleaning from morning until evening. The cafe offers local snacks, sweets, lunch, and dinner at prices accessible to the general public. Strategically located in front of the Madihaan Tehsil office and along UP State Highway No. 5, it is easily accessible for locals and passersby.
With a seating capacity of around 35, the cafe is quickly gaining popularity among employees of the Adani Thermal Power Plant, tehsil staff, community health center personnel, students, laborers, and the general public. The standout feature of ‘Didi Cafe’ is its cleanliness and quality. Premium quality oils and food ingredients are used, and strict hygiene standards are maintained during food preparation and serving. Comfortable seating arrangements are also provided, which are rare in smaller towns.
This initiative exemplifies how providing women with opportunities and resources can transform not only their families but also the economic and social landscape of the entire community. The ‘Didi Cafe’ in Madihaan has become an inspiring model for increasing rural women’s income and providing better food options.
Leave a Comment