Prayagraj, Dec 6 (IANS): The Mahakumbh 2025 is poised to become a significant source of employment for rural women. Thousands of rural women from self-help groups (SHGs) are being provided with stalls and shops at the Mahakumbh ground to boost their livelihood.

These women will manage cafeterias, canteens and 'Shri Anna' counters.

The project, envisaged by the State Livelihood Mission, focuses extensively on empowering rural women.

According to Deputy Commissioner NRLM, Rajeev Kumar Singh, the plan includes assigning rural women the responsibility of running five canteens in the fairgrounds.

"A proposal has been submitted to the Kumbh Mela Authority to allocate 10 shops per sector for these women, alongside 40 plus shops in the Saras Haat section of the fair. This initiative is expected to create direct and indirect employment opportunities for over 5,000 rural women," he said.

He added that the products sold at the stalls and shops set up by rural women at the Mahakumbh will be crafted to promote the branding of Prayagraj Maha Kumbh.

According to Rajeev Kumar Singh, these stalls will feature a variety of multipurpose items.

Given the cold weather during the Maha Kumbh, mufflers are being made with the Maha Kumbh logo. ‘Selfie caps' are also being designed for the younger generation.

Neha Nishad from Eklavya Ajeevika Mahila Samuh said: "The women in my group are producing these items, all featuring Kumbh logo. The Angavastram kept in the baskets being prepared for Prasad will also have the logo and slogan of Maha Kumbh."

The National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) also plans to set up 'Shri Anna' counters at the event, offering these nutritious products at five canteens and a cafeteria for breakfast and lunch.

Additionally, more than half a dozen counters selling Shri Anna products, sourced directly from Shri Anna-producing farmers, will be established.

According to Chinta Devi, President of Nari Shakti Prerna Sankul Samiti, various products made from barley, sorghum, millet, and desi jaggery will also be available at these stalls during the Mahakumbh.