Indian Railways Launches ‘Aabhar’ Online Store to Promote Local Artisans and Handicrafts

Indian Railways has launched the ‘Aabhar’ online store to promote indigenous, ODOP (One District One Product), and GI (Geographical Indication) products made by local artisans and weavers. This initiative of Indian Railways will not only promote the craftsmanship of our country but will also bring prosperity in the lives of millions of artisans. With this, they will not only get new avenues of income, but especially the weaker sections will also get social and economic inclusion.

About Aabhar Store:

• It is hosted on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
• It carries products from the Central Anganwadi Institute (CCIE), Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), and Central and State Handicraft/Handloom Emporiums.
• The gift items and hampers will be used in official events, functions and events of the Railways.
• This is in line with the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, which focuses on promoting products manufactured within the country.
• It offers gift items and hampers for official events and functions.

Objectives:

• The initiative aims to promote India’s rich heritage through handlooms, handicrafts, and handloom items, while also providing market access to rural entrepreneurs.
• Promote local handicrafts and traditional industries.
• Support rural artisans, women-led enterprises, and social inclusion.

Significance:

• Strengthening the commitment to self-reliance and heritage-based economic development through this online portal.
• Provides new market opportunities and income generation opportunities for marginalized artisans and rural entrepreneurs.
• Complements the One Station One Product (OSOP) scheme which showcases local artefacts, handlooms and handicrafts at railway stations.
• This initiative of GeM supports sustainable and inclusive economic growth and promotes handlooms, handicrafts and indigenous products across India.

This scheme will not only empower local artisans economically but also help preserve the country’s cultural heritage. However, challenges lie ahead, such as maintaining product quality, ensuring timely delivery, and training artisans in digital marketing.