Lucknow, April 19: The Yogi government has decided to empower women economically by offering free space in sugarcane cooperatives for employment opportunities. This initiative aims to inspire ‘half the population’ through the Prerna Canteen and showcase their products for sale.
Under the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Sugar Industry and Cane Development Department, along with the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This initiative will provide rural women from self-help groups direct employment and self-employment opportunities through sugarcane cooperatives.
Cane Commissioner Minithi S. stated that in line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision, space will be allocated for women to sell their products in sugarcane cooperatives. He mentioned that cooperative societies will provide available vacant or extra space to women’s self-help groups. This space will be utilized for operating the Prerna Canteen and displaying and selling their products.
Notably, there will be no rent charged for the first two years of using these spaces. After the two-year moratorium, self-help groups will only need to pay 50% of the rent, which will be determined according to the circle rate set by the district administration.
The Cane Commissioner clarified that the ownership of the space provided by the sugarcane cooperatives will remain entirely with the respective committee. Under no circumstances will this ownership be transferred to self-help groups or any other entity, ensuring the security of government assets. Through the Prerna Canteen and display/marketing centers, women will be able to sell their handmade and homemade products, including food items, solar lamps, handicrafts, agricultural products, and other local goods. This initiative will not only increase women’s income but also provide a structured market for local products.
The department will also assist women in training, marketing, and promotion. They will have the opportunity to participate in fairs, exhibitions, and other public events, enhancing the reach of their products. Additionally, further support will be provided as needed to maximize opportunities for women associated with the sugarcane sector.
The Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission (UPSRLM) has been assigned significant responsibilities in this plan. The mission will ensure that women from self-help groups receive proper training in canteen operations, cleanliness, food safety, and quality control. Coordination with the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) will also be established to ensure compliance with food safety standards, providing consumers with safe and quality services. This initiative will not only create employment for women but also diversify the activities of sugarcane cooperatives. Increased local production and consumption will strengthen the rural economy.
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