• Meaning of name: Aakasa means "Sky." The founding members chose this name to reflect their aspirations: "Through our work and our group, we should aim to reach the sky."
• Established: 2023. The group held a puja ceremony and officially inaugurated the cooperative on July 10, 2023.
• Location: DaSilva Naga, a semi-rural area north of Mumbai
• Membership: 10 members, including 3 tailors and 7 embroidery artisans

AAKASA Cooperative was formed in response to growing interest from women in the area after the launch of the SMM Cooperative. As SMM reached capacity, it became clear that a second group was needed. The founding members of AAKASA include women with past ties to SMM—either as former members or through family connections. For six of the women, this cooperative represents their first opportunity to work outside the home. It has opened the door to financial independence and the chance to build confidence through meaningful work and community participation.