LUCKNOW, April 20 -- The state government has decided to provide free space in sugarcane committees to promote employment among rural women and strengthen their economic empowerment. This space will be allotted to the "half population" (women) to run Prerna canteens and to display and sell their products, a spokesperson said. Following the CM's directions, the sugar industry and cane development department and the UP State Rural Livelihood Mission (UPSRLM) have signed an MoU. The initiative will provide direct employment and self-employment opportunities to rural women associated with self-help groups through sugarcane committees. Cane commissioner Mini S said, "In line with CM Yogi Adityanath's vision of making women self-reliant, space will be provided in sugarcane committees for selling their products." Sugarcane cooperative societies across the state will allocate available or surplus space within their premises to women's self-help groups. This space will be used to run Prerna canteens and for the display and sale of products. No rent will be charged for the first two years. After this moratorium period, self-help groups will only be required to pay 50% of the rent, determined as per the circle rates set by the district administration. The cane commissioner further clarified that ownership of the space will remain entirely with the respective committee and will not be transferred to self-help groups or any other entity under any circumstances, ensuring the protection of government assets. Through Prerna canteens and display/marketing centres, women will be able to sell handmade and household products, including food items, solar lamps, handicrafts, agricultural produce, and other local goods. The department will also support self-help group women through training, marketing and promotion. They will be given opportunities to participate in fairs, exhibitions and other public events. Additional assistance will also be provided as needed to ensure maximum opportunities for women in the sugarcane sector. The UPSRLM will ensure proper training for self-help group women in canteen operations, cleanliness, food safety, and quality control. Coordination will also be established with the Food Safety and Drug Administration to ensure compliance with food safety standards, providing consumers with safe and high-quality services....