- Senior officials attending the National Cooperation Conference interacted with the youth and lauded the livelihood-focused initiative.
‘Cafe Pandum’ in Bastar, run by youths who have renounced the path of violence and returned to the social mainstream, is emerging as a shining example of rehabilitation and self-reliance. On Thursday, senior officials from the Central Government and various states—including Dr. Ashish Bhutani, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation, Government of India, who was in Jagdalpur for the two-day National Cooperation Conference—visited the cafe. They interacted with the youth, appreciated their efforts, and described the venture as a significant initiative for livelihood generation and social transformation.
During the visit, Bastar Collector Mr. Akash Chhikara briefed the officials on the cafe’s concept, its operations, and the efforts being made to boost the livelihoods of the families involved. He explained that this initiative aims to provide a dignified life and economic stability to individuals affected by violence who have rejoined the mainstream.
The senior officials praised the cafe’s arrangements, local cuisine, the premises adorned with natural colors, and the warm hospitality. They described the cafe as a vibrant hub developed with simplicity and a reflection of the local ethos. The officials also encouraged the young people managing the cafe.
