Haveri: A pioneering project called Akka Cafe, managed by members of the transgender community, is being established in Haveri’s district administration complex. This initiative, led by Zilla Panchayat CEO Akshy Sridhar, will operate under DAY-NULM and NRLM schemes to provide economic independence to the community.
Officials from the National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) and National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) secured a space for Akka Cafe in Haveri. This establishment, operated by transgender individuals, marks a transition from their previous income sources, including seeking alms, to professional cafe management.
The Akka Cafe initiative, announced by CM Siddaramaiah in the 2024-25 budget, aims to strengthen financial independence for women whilst creating sustainable employment opportunities. While the programme typically supports women entrepreneurs from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Haveri, transgender individuals approached ZP CEO Akshy to establish the cafe near the ZP office, with preparations underway.
The initial phase includes establishing 50 cafes throughout the state across rural and urban areas. These cafes, typically managed by SHG women, receive grants up to Rs 15 lakh for establishment costs, including infrastructure support, aligning with the govt’s objective of economic empowerment.
“We were mulling opening an Akka Cafe in Haveri, while transgenders approached us regarding the same. We have allowed opening the cafe at the basement of our ZP building on district administration complex premises and works regarding this are going on,” shared Akshy Sridhar, CEO of Haveri ZP.
He added that while SHG women have been operating Akka Cafes across various districts, Haveri’s transgender applicants were allocated space to enhance their social integration. Preparations continue for the cafe’s establishment, with building rent and other matters pending finalisation. Four transgender individuals have completed the management training. “Quality, quantity, and maintaining hygiene with an affordable price is the main intention. We are yet to decide on prices for food items,” the CEO clarified.
Courtesy : Times Of India
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