Jaunpur: In a significant step towards strengthening women’s entrepreneurship and self-reliance, Uttar Pradesh Urban Development and Energy Minister and Jaunpur District In-Charge Minister A.K. Sharma inaugurated the “Unnati Green Café” at the Development Bhawan campus in Jaunpur. The initiative has been launched under the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) to promote economic empowerment and sustainable livelihood opportunities for women associated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Addressing the gathering, Minister Sharma said that the State Rural Livelihood Mission has emerged as an effective platform for bringing positive change in the lives of women across the state. He noted that the mission not only provides financial support but also equips women with skill development, training, and entrepreneurial knowledge necessary to run successful enterprises.
“Women associated with Self-Help Groups are no longer merely job seekers; they are becoming job creators and key contributors to the state’s economic growth,” Sharma said.
He emphasized that initiatives such as the Unnati Green Café will strengthen local economies while creating sustainable income opportunities for women. The café will provide citizens with hygienic, affordable, and quality food services while serving as a model of women-led entrepreneurship.
Calling it an important step towards realizing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Atmanirbhar Uttar Pradesh, the minister said the project demonstrates how community-based enterprises can contribute to inclusive development and social progress.
During the visit, Sharma inspected the café operations, interacted with members of the Self-Help Groups managing the facility, and appreciated their efforts. He encouraged them to continue expanding their entrepreneurial activities and assured them of the government’s continued support.
“Women’s success is the foundation of the state’s success. The government remains committed to providing every possible assistance for their advancement and empowerment,” he added.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Seema Dwivedi, Madiyahu MLA Dr. R.K. Patel, former Maharashtra Minister of State for Home Kripashankar Singh, BJP district leaders Dr. Ajay Singh and Ajit Prajapati, the District Magistrate, along with other public representatives and government officials.
