Invest ₹20,000 and earn ₹30,000 monthly—this canteen model is turning women into successful entrepreneurs

UP Prerna Canteen: The ‘Prerna Canteen’ is a unique food establishment run entirely by women, where local residents are served hygienic, home-style meals. Read on to learn the essential details about this initiative.

What is the Prerna Canteen? Very few of you may be aware of the Prerna Canteen. It is a small-scale food service initiative operated by women, offering simple meals—in addition to tea and snacks—to the public.

Launched in Uttar Pradesh, this scheme is empowering a large number of women by making them self-reliant. Through this initiative, women affiliated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are delivering hygienic food to various locations, including health centers. Notably, under this scheme, these women are able to easily earn ₹10,000 or more every month.

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So, What Exactly is a Prerna Canteen?

The menu at this canteen features items such as parathas, upma, and home-style thalis (complete meals), in addition to tea and samosas. The hallmark of this canteen is the exceptional hygiene maintained by the women while preparing the food. Consequently, customers thoroughly enjoy their meals. The canteen is managed by a small team—typically comprising just 2 to 5 women—from a Self-Help Group.

How ​​Can You Start a Prerna Canteen?

Before starting one, women must first join a Self-Help Group (SHG) in their local area. Through these groups, the government provides loans to women at very low interest rates.
How ​​much does it cost to open a canteen?

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The initial setup costs—covering items such as gas stoves, utensils, and other supplies—typically require an investment of up to ₹20,000. During this process, the government also provides assistance to help minimize operational costs.

How ​​much is earned from a Prerna Canteen?

Through this canteen, daily sales range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000. This means that the monthly income can reach up to ₹30,000. Since joining this initiative, many women have witnessed a significant improvement in their domestic circumstances.

What are the government’s roles and schemes?

The Yogi government is not only promoting this initiative but is also working to secure the future of these women. The Livelihood Mission is actively working to establish Prerna Canteens in various locations to ensure that women gain access to employment opportunities. Under this scheme, women across the state are not only stepping out of their homes to work, but their households are also experiencing a tangible improvement in their economic condition.