In a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and empowering individuals with disabilities, Mitti Café has opened a new branch within the prestigious Rashtrapati Bhavan. The café, which employs more than 20 persons with disabilities, was inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu on her 66th birthday.
The inauguration ceremony was a momentous occasion, graced by several prominent personalities, including Rajesh Verma, Secretary to the President; Rakesh Gupta, Additional Secretary to the President; Maj. Gen. R. S. Manral, Military Secretary to the President; Ajay Kumar Singh, Press Secretary to the President; Shefali Bajaj; and Kurush Irani, President of Bajaj Finance.
President Murmu marked the opening of the café by cutting a cake and engaging warmly with the employees of Mitti Café. Her interaction with the staff underscored her commitment to creating an inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities are given equal opportunities to thrive.
Located within the Presidential Estate, Mitti Café is part of a non-profit initiative dedicated to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities and raising awareness about disabilities. The café chain, already established in over 40 locations across the country, includes outlets in corporate and public spaces such as the Supreme Court of India, Mumbai Airport, Bengaluru Airport, India Coffee House, Hansraj College, Wells Fargo, Infosys, ANZ Bank, Wipro, and Cytecare Hospital.
This new branch at Rashtrapati Bhavan follows the successful inauguration of Mitti Café’s outlet at the Supreme Court of India by the Chief Justice of India. Notably, President Murmu had previously visited the café at the Supreme Court, reflecting her ongoing support for the organisation’s mission.
Mitti Café’s mission extends beyond its culinary offerings; it also provides a carefully curated selection of corporate and personal gifts, crafted by its team of adults with disabilities. These products are ideal for recognising and motivating employees, strengthening client relationships, commemorating corporate milestones, creating lasting impressions with welcome kits, and celebrating festive seasons.
The new café at Rashtrapati Bhavan is not only a testament to the potential of persons with disabilities but also a significant step towards building a more inclusive society. President Murmu’s involvement in the inauguration reflects the administration’s dedication to inclusivity and support for initiatives that empower individuals with disabilities.