Mysuru Zilla Panchayat Prepares to Launch Three Akka Cafes in March to Boost Women's Empowerment
The Mysuru zilla panchayat is gearing up to launch three Akka Cafes across the district in March, as part of a state-wide initiative announced in the Karnataka Budget 2024. These cafes aim to involve women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and promote women's empowerment through entrepreneurial opportunities in the food service sector.
First Phase Locations and Expansion Plans
In the initial phase, the cafes will be established at three strategic locations: the Mysuru Zilla Panchayat office premises, near the taluk office, and at the Hunsur taluk office. The ZP has already converted parking space at its office to accommodate one of these cafes, with operations expected to commence in the first or second week of March.
Speaking to the media, zilla panchayat CEO S Ukeshkumar confirmed that the ZP plans to start the Akka Cafe at the ZP office premises in early March. He added that the remaining cafes will be opened in a phased manner, with the ZP finalizing one SHG among three identified groups to operate and maintain the first cafe.
Second Phase and Premium Cafe Approvals
For the second phase, steps have been initiated to set up cafes at public places with high footfall. Premium Akka Cafes have been approved for key locations including Halagere near Beechaganahalli on the Mysuru–Madikeri National Highway, the KSRTC bus stand in Kamplapura, and the Shanthaveeramma Temple in Bettadapura, Periyapatna taluk.
Additionally, groundwork has begun for premium cafes at T Narasipura, Bannur, and Nanjangud, indicating a robust expansion strategy across the district.
Funding and Grant Details
The initiative is funded by the department of skill development, entrepreneurship and livelihood. Selected SHGs will receive substantial grants to support their ventures:
- Premium cafes: Rs 15 lakh grant
- Classic (small) cafes: Rs 7 lakh grant
These grants cover essential infrastructure such as furniture, billing machines, printers, renovation, flooring, kitchen setup, CCTV installation, and basic infrastructure. However, SHGs must finance additional items including utensils, LPG cylinders, stoves, refrigerators, mixers, and grinders.
Eligibility and Operational Framework
Only SHGs registered under the National Rural Livelihood Mission or National Urban Livelihood Mission are eligible to participate. Each group must have 5–10 members, with preference given to SHGs trained in culinary skills to ensure quality service.
Training will be provided to selected SHGs to operate the cafes successfully, as emphasized by CEO Ukeshkumar. This support aims to equip women with the necessary skills for sustainable business management.
Menu and Management
Akka Cafes are expected to serve quality meals throughout the day, with a diverse menu catering to local tastes:
- Breakfast: idli, vade, sambar, dosa, pongal, kesaribath, and kharabhath
- Lunch and dinner: chapathi, rice, sambar, and ragi balls
SHGs will manage all operations—from cooking to service—under their own brand identity, fostering a sense of ownership and community involvement. This model not only provides employment but also enhances the visibility and economic independence of women in the region.
The launch of Akka Cafes in Mysuru represents a significant step towards women's empowerment, leveraging government support and local entrepreneurship to create sustainable livelihoods and promote social inclusion.
