Visakhapatnam: In a move that promises to empower tribal communities and promote sustainable livelihoods, the Visakhapatnam division of the Andhra Pradesh forest department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Amazon India.
This strategic partnership leverages the rich heritage and craftsmanship of tribal artisans residing in Sambhuvanipalem, nestled within the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary.
The collaboration aims to provide a global platform for these artisans by listing their authentic handcrafted products on Amazon’s e-commerce platform. This initiative will not only enhance their visibility but also create new income opportunities and foster sustainable economic development.
The Amazon Karigar programme forms the cornerstone of this partnership. Through this programme, tribal artisans will receive valuable training in product value addition, packaging, and branding, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in the online marketplace.
Additionally, the forest department will establish a dedicated e-commerce hub to streamline operations by managing packaging, storage, order processing, and product dispatch.
“This partnership with Amazon India signifies the forest department’s unwavering commitment to empowering local communities,” remarked Anant Shankar, the District Forest Officer of Visakhapatnam.
He expressed optimism that this initiative will be transformative for the tribal community in the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary. By providing a platform to showcase their craftsmanship and generate income, the project aims to improve their livelihoods in a sustainable manner.The benefits extend beyond economic empowerment. This collaboration also contributes to forest conservation efforts in the region. By providing alternative sources of income, the project discourages dependence on forest resources, ultimately promoting wildlife protection and environmental sustainability.
