Hyderabad: How Mitti Café at Rashtrapati Nilayam, Bollaram is trying to empower people with disabilities

Hyderabad: Mitti Café has embarked on a mission to empower people with physical and mental disabilities.

The organization has launched an initiative to provide essential skills and training to help people with disabilities (PwDs) become financially independent.

A new Mitti Cafe has been set up at the newly constructed Reception Center within the premises of Bollaram Rashtrapati Nilayam.

Rashtrapati Nilayam authorities have provided the space free of charge. This cafe is managed by 15 individuals with physical and mental disabilities who earn monthly salaries ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹50,000, depending on their roles.

Swati, one of the coordinators, emphasized that Mitti Cafe is helping these individuals lead lives of financial independence and dignity while supporting their families.

The menu at Mitti Cafe includes samosas, chaat, pakodas, masala tea, biscuits, coffee, Maggi, sandwiches, a variety of ice creams, and other snacks—all prepared with quality and care. Visitors to the Rashtrapati Nilayam are encouraged to include a stop at Mitti Cafe in their schedule.

Organizations like Indian Oil Corporation Limited and the Australia-New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ) sponsor the cafe's operations expenses under the CSR initiative. The Telangana Social Impact Group (T-SIG/CSR Wing) played a key role in setting up this cafe under the state government's guidance.

During her recent winter sojourn, President Draupadi Murmu visited Mitti Cafe and personally appreciated the individuals running it. Her acknowledgment further highlights the impact and success of this initiative.

Mitti Cafe has established its presence in over 40 locations across India, including prestigious venues like the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi, the Supreme Court Complex, and international airports. The founder, Swarnabha Mitra, shared that these cafes are designed to bring societal attention to the abilities of individuals with mental and physical challenges, encouraging empathy and inclusion.

At these cafes, stalls feature modern handmade items such as home and office decor, children’s toys, notebooks, and pens created by vulnerable communities.

Recognizing the work of Mitti Cafe, government and corporate entities besides national and international voluntary organizations provide financial support under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Many celebrities have also visited these cafes, expressing solidarity with the cause.