The Mangalam canteens in Gujarat are making a significant impact on people’s lives, especially women, by fostering their entrepreneurial skills and promoting self-reliance. These canteens have become a platform for women to not only secure employment but also establish sustainable businesses, serving as a source of inspiration for others. With over 200-250 operational canteens in various strategic locations like government offices and educational centers, women from Self-Help Groups are experiencing a notable improvement in their living standards due to increased earnings.
More than 1,700 women in Gujarat have found employment through the Mangalam Canteen scheme, with monthly incomes ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000. The initiative has provided training in hotel management to these women, enabling them to efficiently run the canteens and support their families. Managed by the Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company Limited (GLPC), the canteens have not only offered livelihood opportunities but have also become a symbol of women’s empowerment in the state.
The success of the ‘Mangalam Canteen’ scheme lies in its expansion across various key locations, including government offices, schools, hospitals, and police buildings. This initiative, initiated under the GLPC, aims to empower women by promoting indigenous products and fostering self-reliance in every household. Through these canteens, women are not only gaining financial independence but also contributing to the growth of their communities, embodying the spirit of ‘Har Ghar Swadeshi, Ghar-Ghar Swadeshi’ (Indigenous products in every home).
