The Bidar zilla panchayat has launched Akka Café, a livelihood initiative aimed at strengthening women’s economic independence through self-help groups (SHGs). The programme, aligned with the state government’s vision to promote women-led microenterprises, marks the first rollout of Akka Cafés in the Kalyana Karnataka region.
The cafés were inaugurated on Monday under the leadership of Dr Girish Badole, ZP CEO, who emphasised that the district administration is committed to creating sustainable avenues of income for women from economically weaker sections. The initiative, he said, reflects the government’s broader goal of enabling women to participate meaningfully in local economies through skill-based enterprises.
First phase begins with two cafés
In the initial phase, two Akka Cafés have been opened—one at the zilla panchayat office in Bidar and another in Humanabad taluk. Managed by women from the Bagadal village SHG, the cafés are operated entirely by the group, from preparing meals to serving customers on the ZP premises at affordable prices.
Dr Badole noted that the government has already launched similar cafés across several districts, with a few in North Karnataka showing promising results. Based on public response and operational success, more outlets are expected to be established across the district in the coming days.
“These cafés not only provide income but also create a sense of dignity and empowerment for women. The state budget announcement ensured funds and support for this initiative, and we are committed to scaling it up,” he said.
Support from government departments
Dr Badole said all government departments and staff have been encouraged to support the cafés by ordering food for official meetings and programmes, thereby ensuring consistent business and income for the women involved. He added that the fully equipped building provided by the ZP has enabled the SHG women to begin operations without financial stress.
The newly launched cafés are considered the first in the Kalyana Karnataka region, marking a significant milestone for decentralised women-led enterprises.
Women take charge
Lalita Patil, who leads the team at Akka Café, said the members of the Bagadal SHG come from modest backgrounds but bring valuable experience gained from hotel work and operating PG mess services in Bidar. Five to six women currently manage daily operations including preparation, service and hospitality.
“This is a crucial opportunity for us. If ZP employees and the general public support us, our business will grow, and we can earn a stable livelihood,” Lalita shared.
She added that the cafés offer breakfast items such as idli, vada, upma, pulav and tea, along with affordable lunch options tailored for office-goers and visitors to the ZP.
Boosting social and economic empowerment
The Akka Café model represents a growing commitment to social and economic empowerment for women. By rooting the initiative within SHGs, the programme provides both financial opportunities and leadership roles for women in rural and semi-urban communities.
The district administration expects the cafés to eventually serve as incubators for larger food-based enterprises led by women, strengthening local economies while uplifting livelihoods.
Officials have stated that more cafés may be opened across Bidar depending on demand and community engagement. The initiative aligns closely with Karnataka’s ongoing efforts to improve employment prospects, provide skill support and foster inclusive development.