Prerna Canteen: If a woman wishes to start her own business with minimal investment, 'Prerna Canteen' can be an excellent option. This small-scale food business not only provides employment but also offers women the opportunity to become self-reliant. Let's explore what a Prerna Canteen is and how you can open one.

What is a Prerna Canteen?

A Prerna Canteen is a small, organized food stall or canteen specifically initiated for women. It offers everyday food and beverage items such as tea, coffee, samosas, pakoras, poha, upma, etc. Additionally, in many locations, simple *thalis* (meal platters) or home-style meals are also served. Its most significant feature is that the food served here is affordable, hygienic, and tastes just like home-cooked food; this quickly builds customer trust, encouraging them to visit repeatedly.

This initiative has been launched in several states through Women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Typically, a group of 2 to 5 women collaborates to run the canteen. This not only boosts their income but also instills self-confidence in them, enabling them to provide financial support to their families. In many places, the government and local organizations also extend support to this endeavor—for instance, by providing training, facilitating low-interest loans, and assisting in securing a suitable location for the canteen.

How to Start a Prerna Canteen?

Starting a Prerna Canteen is quite simple. You can choose to start it either individually or as part of a group. The first and most crucial step is selecting the right location. Choose a spot with high footfall—such as near offices, schools, colleges, hospitals, or bus stands. Subsequently, you will need to obtain a Food Safety License (FSSAI) and the necessary permits from your local municipal corporation.

What is the Cost Involved?

There is no need to make a massive initial investment. You can begin operations on a small scale, equipped with just a gas stove, utensils, tables and chairs, and basic sanitation arrangements. Typically, starting this business entails an investment ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. If government assistance is secured, this cost can be reduced even further.

How much can one earn?

Earnings depend entirely on your hard work, the quality of the food prepared, and the location. Generally, one can earn between ₹1,000 and ₹3,000 per day. Every month, these earnings can reach anywhere from ₹30,000 to ₹80,000—or even higher. This is precisely why many women are becoming 'lakhpatis' (earning in the lakhs) through this business venture.

To drive this initiative forward, the Aajeevika–National Rural Livelihoods Mission and the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority are collaborating closely. With their support, women—particularly those residing near industrial zones—are being provided the opportunity to open 'Prerna Canteens.' Thanks to the cooperation between the government and these organizations, Prerna Canteens have already been launched in numerous locations. Meanwhile, the government is preparing to further expand this scheme. In the near future, there are plans to launch new Prerna Canteens in Muzaffarnagar, Sant Kabir Nagar, Barabanki, and Kanpur. This will create employment opportunities for an even larger number of women.

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