Snapdeal joins hands with Jharkhand government to promote indigenous bamboo craft

You will now find hand-made bamboo products on Snapdeal as India's e-commerce firm has launched these products in partnership with Mukhyam Mantri Laghu Kutir Udyog Vikas Board (MMLKUB), an initiative of the Department of Industries and the Jharkhand  government. The products like a curated range of home and kitchen accessories and furniture made by the Kalindi and Sabars tribes from Jharkhand, besides daily use items like baskets, racks and stands will be available on the online shopping platform, according to the company statement.

With the partnership, Snapdeal aims to make the indigenous bamboo industry mainstream outside Jharkhand. Snapdeal spokesperson said, “Jharkhand has high-quality bamboo in abundance. The tribes of this region are also skilled to make aesthetically appealing and functional items for Indian households. We are delighted to bring these fun yet eco-friendly bamboo items on our platform.” 

K. Ravi Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Industry, Government of Jharkhand, said, “Snapdeal's close connect with buyers from all over the country, including in the smaller cities, is a valuable opportunity to take the indigenous bamboo craft of Jharkhand deeper in India. Also, the training provided by Snapdeal to officials of the Department of Industries, Govt. of Jharkhand will help drive greater impact for this joint initiative." 

The company's catelogue will also showcase bamboo cutlery and kitchen range that includes straws, spoons, forks, bowls, mugs, tray, bottle cover, boxes, coasters and glasses, in order to reduce the use of plastic, it said. Home decor items like lamps, sofa sets, tables, chairs, beds, showpieces, mats and vases made in warm tones of traditional hardwood are also part of the selection.

The artisans have also made unique fashion accessories like bangles, hair clips, earrings, necklaces, bags that depict the distinctive culture of the region. Kanshi grass, palm leaves, and beads made in eco-friendly material are also used in making the products.

Snapdeal has conducted a “train-the-trainers” programme that will help officials of MMLKUB train artisans to sign up and list their products on the Snapdeal platform, using a simple 4-step sign-up process, which needs only bank details, phone & email and a GST number.

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According to Snapdeal, the move enables small businesses to sell online, and the product assortment includes value merchandise which is available in the bazaars of India. Currently, Snapdeal has over 200 million SKUs from 5 lakh sellers on the platform, which has 70 million monthly users.