The Karnataka government plans to expand the “Akka Cafes” initiative—women-run eateries providing affordable meals—across Chamarajanagar district and potentially statewide. Initially launched in 2022 with a single cafe in Chamarajanagar, the program now operates five cafes and aims to establish one in each of the district’s seven taluks by December 2024.
These cafes are managed entirely by women self-help groups (SHGs), offering nutritious meals like rice, sambar, curd, and vegetable curries at subsidized rates – currently ₹5 for breakfast, ₹10 for lunch, and ₹15 for dinner. The initiative addresses food security and provides employment opportunities for women, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The success of the existing cafes, which serve around 500-700 people daily, has driven the expansion plans. The Chamarajanagar MP, V. Srinivas Prasad, secured ₹70 lakh from his MP Local Area Development (MPLAD) fund to support the expansion. Each new cafe requires approximately ₹10-12 lakh for infrastructure and initial operating costs.
The cafes source ingredients locally, supporting farmers and strengthening the local economy. The program is overseen by the District Rural Development Self Employment Training Institute (DRDSETI) which provides training to the women SHG members in food preparation, hygiene, and cafe management.
Beyond Chamarajanagar, there is interest in replicating the Akka Cafe model in other districts. Officials are evaluating the feasibility of a statewide rollout, recognizing its potential to address hunger, empower women, and promote sustainable livelihoods. The initiative is viewed as a successful example of community-driven development and a model for addressing social challenges through self-help groups. The focus remains on ensuring quality, affordability, and sustainability of the cafes.
