My name is Kanti Punekar, wife of J.M. Punekar, and I am a resident of the tourist city of Indore. There are five members in my family. In today's time, it is not easy for a single person to manage all the household expenses, so I also wanted to contribute financially to support my family. I have completed my education up to the 12th grade.
An Opportunity for Change
Through one of my friends, I learned that Aparajita Mahila Sangh, Indore, was providing free skill development training for women under the "Safe Tourist Destinations for Women" project of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. This seemed like a great opportunity for me, so I decided to enroll in the training.
I received training in cooking and food preparation, where I learned how to prepare different types of dishes, maintain hygiene, cook nutritious and safe food, and organize my work professionally. The training also taught me how to start a small business and gradually expand it.
"Earlier, I was dependent on others, but now I have become completely self-reliant. Even without higher education, women can move ahead and achieve success through their skills and determination."
— Kanti Punekar, Cloud Kitchen EntrepreneurOvercoming Hurdles & Operations
During the training, I faced some challenges in balancing childcare responsibilities and attending the sessions. However, I remained focused on my goal and successfully managed both.
After completing the training, I started my own cloud kitchen business, which I operate from my home. I prepare fresh and hygienic meals based on customer orders. Special attention is given to food quality and cleanliness, and no spoiled or harmful ingredients are used. The food is carefully packed to ensure it reaches customers safely.
The meals prepared by me are delivered through Zomato and Swiggy. I work from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM and also during the night from 12:00 AM to 8:00 AM. I am running my business confidently and fearlessly, while continuously moving forward.
Financial Growth and a New Perspective
Through this work, I earn approximately ₹15,000 per month. This income helps me manage my personal expenses, support my children's needs, and contribute to household expenses. Earlier, I was dependent on others, but now I have become completely self-reliant.
Today, my family's perspective has also changed. The people who once criticized me now appreciate my efforts and encourage me to keep moving forward. In the future, I want to expand my business and develop it into a hotel. I also aspire to create employment opportunities for other women.
My message to other women is to take steps toward becoming self-reliant. Never think that you cannot achieve something. Even without higher education, women can move ahead and achieve success through their skills and determination.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Aparajita Mahila Sangh for providing me with this opportunity, helping me turn my dreams into reality, and continuously guiding and motivating me to progress further.