ICAR-NINFET Supports KrishiCraft Market Linkage Bootcamp Organized by Avahita for Artisans Working with Natural Fibres

The KrishiCraft Market Linkage Bootcamp, organized by Avahita and ICAR-NINFET,
empowered artisans working with natural fibres by connecting them to sustainable markets,
offering design guidance, and fostering innovation for eco-friendly growth.

Kolkata, August 21, 2024 – Avahita Marketing & Consulting Services Pvt. Ltd., in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology (ICAR-NINFET), organized the KrishiCraft Market Linkage Bootcamp from August 7 to August 20, 2024, at the ICAR-NINFET premises. This initiative, guided by NINFET, aimed to empower artisans working with natural fibres by connecting them with KrishiCraft, a sustainable marketplace, and leveraging ICAR-NINFET’s expertise in knowledge and Avahita’s strengths in marketing and implementation.
The bootcamp was designed to onboard and support artisans, SHGs, producer companies, enhancing their capabilities and linking them to sustainable markets. It provided valuable guidance on innovative practices, ensuring growth and sustainability in a dynamic marketplace.
Dr. D B Shakyawar, Director of ICAR-NINFET, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “The KrishiCraft Market Linkage Bootcamp represents a significant step towards integrating artisans into sustainable supply chains. By providing these artisans with essential market linkages and innovative practices, we are fostering a more resilient and eco-friendly industry.”
During the bootcamp, 21 artisans participated in one-on-one design intervention meetings, detailed training sessions, and received personalized guidance from the Avahita team. These artisans, referred by ICAR-NINFET, demonstrated the institution’s commitment to sustainable development through artisan empowerment.
The bootcamp’s findings highlighted the robust credentialing of participants, with 24% certified by NINFET and 71% holding certifications from the Government of West Bengal. This emphasizes the artisans’ credibility and commitment to their craft. All artisans operated their own manufacturing units, ensuring traceability, authenticity, and a strong focus on local production. Most artisans sourced their raw materials, particularly jute, from NINFET, underscoring their dedication to high-quality, sustainable materials.
A diverse range of products was showcased, with a notable emphasis on stationery and gift items. Other categories included home and living products, jewelry, apparel, and art décor, reflecting the artisans’ versatility and the scalability of their production capabilities.
The bootcamp highlighted opportunities for further innovation in product design and material usage. Avahita’s KrishiCraft plans to expand collaborations with NGOs and other organizations to broaden market access and drive innovation. Efforts will focus on strengthening partnerships, streamlining procurement and production processes, and optimizing lead times and minimum order quantities to better meet market demands.

“Avahita seeks ICAR-NINFET’s guidance to deepen its collaboration by expanding connections to artisans, SHGs, producer companies, agribusiness incubation members, and NGOs across West Bengal and beyond. This partnership aims to enhance KrishiCraft’s mission of promoting sustainable, eco-friendly products through inclusive growth and technological integration,” said Sudeshna Das, Founder of Avahita.
The KrishiCraft Market Linkage Bootcamp has laid a strong foundation for future growth and collaboration. With continued mentorship, guidance, and support from NINFET and other stakeholders, KrishiCraft is poised to drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth for artisans working with natural fibres, paving the way for a more inclusive and eco-friendly market for agri-based products.