PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The Hilans canteen at Deen Dayal Upadhyay district hospital, managed exclusively by a women’s self-help group, has officially begun operations. Stating this, the medical superintendent of the hospital Dr VS Chauhan said that the establishment of this canteen was recently initiated by the district magistrate. This initiative is designed to create economic opportunities for women and promote their empowerment. The construction of the canteen was completed just a few days ago and it has recently been handed over to a women’s self-help group for management.
Dr Chauhan said that this canteen is unique, as it is the first at a government hospital to offer traditional Pahadi dishes to patients and visitors at affordable prices.
At present, the canteen has begun serving simple meals, as the official inauguration has not yet taken place. Once the canteen is officially inaugurated, it will also feature Pahadi food and other traditional dishes. The canteen operates at the hospital from 7 AM to 9:30 PM. Currently, there are two workers along with the leader of a self-help group who is managing operations there, he said.
It is pertinent to mention that a few days ago, the DM announced plans for Dehradun to introduce four new food outlets, which will include cafes, canteens and restaurants all run by women from self-help groups (SHGs). These facilities will be situated at the courthouse, Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital, Guchhupani and Suddhowala, close to the Panchayat Ghar. The DM emphasised that these outlets will be entirely managed by women who will undergo training to meet market standards, equipping them with the skills necessary to successfully operate these establishments. He said that this initiative is a significant advancement for women’s empowerment, offering them stable income sources and valuable business experience.
