E Commerce major Flipkart to show case Tamil Nadu handicrafts in the global market in a big way

E-Commerce Giant Flipkart has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu MSME Trade and Investment Promotion Bureau (MTIPB) to promote local artisans weavers craftsmen and small and midsize businesses in Tamil Nadu into their fold

The partnership, under the Flipkart Samarth programme, will enable local artisans, weavers, and craftsmen to showcase their hallmark products. The MTIPB will support Flipkart’s engagement with State-owned or affiliated enterprises and undertakings that work with local artisans, weavers, crafts producers and farmers to provide training and support.

Many of cooperative societies in the state involved in production of handicrafts

The State is a world-known destination for consumers who are in search of some of the finest handicrafts in India, such as celestial figures in bronze, brass lamps, rosewood carvings, sandalwood carvings and more. “There are 294 Industrial Cooperative Societies functioning under the department. Many of them are involved in production of handicrafts. This pact will link these societies to a national market for their products,” said State Industries Commissioner and Director of Industries and Commerce, Anu George.

“Flipkart Samarth seeks to break entry barriers for local artisans and weavers by extending incubation support, which includes benefits in the form of seamless onboarding, marketing, account management, business insights and warehousing support said a spokesman of the E Commerce company. This will create avenues to increase business and trade inclusion opportunities. Collaboration with the State government is yet another step towards this.”

Flipkart Samarth now supports 7,50,000 artisans weavers and craftsmen across India

The programme, launched in 2019, aims to build a sustainable and inclusive platform for under-served, domestic communities and businesses to empower them with greater opportunities and better livelihood. Flipkart Samarth is now able to support the livelihood of over 7,50,000 artisans, weavers and craftsmen across India and is working towards bringing more such sellers to the platform.