Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Punjab government is planning to open more than 100 canteens in government offices across the state to promote women's economic empowerment and provide them with self-employment opportunities.
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the canteens would be operated by women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs). In the first phase, 100 self-help groups will be allotted canteens under the initiative.
No Rent, Free Electricity and Water
Cheema said the government would provide special facilities to the self-help groups running these canteens. The groups will not have to pay any rent for the allotted space. Electricity and water facilities will also be provided free of cost.
Additionally, the government will arrange essential infrastructure, including furniture, utensils and other basic equipment required to start operations.
Women to Get Opportunities for Self-Employment
Government offices witness a daily footfall of employees as well as members of the public visiting for various official purposes. Setting up canteens at these locations will provide women-led self-help groups with direct access to customers and an opportunity to generate income.
Women associated with these groups will be able to operate the canteens and earn a livelihood through their own businesses. The initiative aims to create employment opportunities for women and help them become financially self-reliant.
100 SHGs to Be Included in First Phase
According to Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, 100 self-help groups will be assigned the responsibility of operating canteens in the initial phase, while the overall plan envisages opening more than 100 such facilities across government offices in Punjab.
Further details regarding the selection of government offices, allotment procedures and the commencement of canteen operations are yet to be announced.
