Women's Self-Help Group Fuels Ranchi Civic Election Machinery with Timely Meals
While security arrangements and poll parties captured attention on Sunday, a day before the February 23 civic body elections in Ranchi, a dedicated team of 16 women from the 'Palash Didi Café' operated quietly behind the scenes. Their mission was critical: to ensure the election machinery ran smoothly by providing timely and nourishing food services to all personnel involved.
Round-the-Clock Operations at Morabadi Ground Dispatch Centre
Coordinated through the district administration office on Kutchery Road, the women-led self-help group managed food services from a dispatch centre established at Morabadi Ground. Their operations commenced at 5 am and continued until nearly 8 pm on Sunday, serving as an indispensable lifeline for over 2,000 officials, security staff, and volunteers reporting for election duty.
"We started before sunrise because polling teams begin arriving very early. Everything has to be fresh and ready on time. There is no room for delay," explained Punam Devi, a member of the café group. The team's meticulous planning ensured that from steaming cups of early morning tea and breakfast packets to full meals for polling personnel, every requirement was met promptly.
Simple Yet Hearty Menu Catering to Diverse Needs
The menu offered by the Palash Didi Café was both affordable and satisfying, designed to keep officials energized throughout their demanding duties. Options included fish and rice priced at Rs 120, chicken rice at Rs 100, and a vegetarian thali available for Rs 50. Demonstrating thoughtful inclusivity, the team also arranged evening snacks for personnel observing 'roza', enabling them to break their fast comfortably.
"We understand their needs. Some want light food, some need packed meals to carry along. Our job is to make sure no one leaves hungry," Punam added, highlighting the group's commitment to personalized service.
Years of Experience and Steady Growth in Election Services
This women's group has been associated with election-related food services since 2015, gradually scaling up their operations with each electoral event. Their experience has equipped them to handle the logistical challenges of feeding large groups efficiently.
"Managing food for such a large group of people is challenging, but it feels good to contribute to the democratic process," shared Neelam Devi, another 'didi' at the café. This sentiment underscores how grassroots initiatives like Palash Didi Café play a vital, though often overlooked, role in supporting India's electoral framework by ensuring that basic needs are met, allowing officials to focus on their critical polling responsibilities.
