In the heart of Gujarat, a remarkable story unfolds. Poonamben Parmar, a woman from Nandej village, has become an inspiration for many. With just a basic education, she has turned her passion for cooking into a successful catering business. This journey is made possible through the support of the government’s financial schemes aimed at empowering women.
Poonamben runs Gopi Fast Food catering service at the LD Engineering College canteen in Ahmedabad. She started her career by running a small eatery but faced challenges that led her to rethink her business approach. After the pandemic in 2021, she launched a snack shop in her village. Thanks to the financial assistance of ₹30,000 from the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) through a self-help group, she was able to establish her catering service at the college in 2025.
The Gopi Sakhi Mandal, as her self-help group is known, consists of Poonamben and ten other women from her village. They work together to save money and create job opportunities for themselves. Poonamben manages the canteen with the help of eight to ten staff members, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Sometimes, her children also help out, making it a family affair.
The canteen opens daily from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM, serving a variety of dishes. Students enjoy Gujarati thali, Punjabi thali, and a range of snacks including dabeli, vada pav, sandwiches, khaman, and idli-dosa. The food is affordable and always well-received by the students, who appreciate the home-like atmosphere Poonamben creates.
Poonamben’s success is not just about her business. It represents the broader movement of women empowerment in Gujarat. The NRLM provides financial support to women, helping them become self-reliant. Poonamben’s story highlights how with determination and support, women can overcome challenges and succeed in their ventures.
Before starting her catering business, Poonamben struggled to find success in her small eatery. However, the support from the NRLM and her self-help group allowed her to turn her dreams into reality. She now provides employment to nine other people through her canteen, generating an estimated daily income of around ₹10,000.
The Gopi Sakhi Mandal is a shining example of what women can achieve together. They save collectively and engage in various economic activities, enhancing their financial stability. Poonamben’s story encourages others in her village and beyond to strive for independence and contribute to their communities.
Poonamben aspires to expand her business further. She is an embodiment of the changing landscape for women in Gujarat, where many are stepping forward as entrepreneurs. With government support and their own resilience, women like Poonamben are paving the way for future generations, proving that education and encouragement can lead to extraordinary achievements.
In conclusion, Poonamben Parmar’s journey is not just about running a catering service; it’s about empowerment, community, and the strength of women. As they take steps towards self-reliance, they inspire others to follow suit, making Gujarat a beacon of hope for women’s entrepreneurship.
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