Sambalpur, Aug 31: To empower the traditional handloom sector of India, particularly in Odisha, IIM Sambalpur, one of the premier management institutions, recently organized a Buyer-Seller Meet at its campus.
The event aimed to facilitate networking between master weavers and distinguished buyers from various regions of India, including prominent brands such as Fabindia, Nykaa Fashions, Reliance Swadesh and Aditya Birla Liva. The initiative provided master weavers with direct access to the market, thereby significantly enhancing their global business opportunities and promoting the rich heritage of Odisha's handloom industry. On the occasion, a booklet entitled ‘Natural Dyeing' was also unveiled by the dignitaries.
The event also marked the successful conclusion of the second edition of the 12-weekend'Small Business Management Training Programme,' specifically designed for master weavers from Western Odisha being conducted at the IIM Sambalpur campus. The program was organized in collaboration with several key stakeholders, including; the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI);; Aditya Birla Grasim, Imperial College,the ORMAS and Mission Shakti Department of Odisha.
Furthermore, the day featured an exhibition cum sale of weaver products that showcased a diverse array of handloom creations, highlighting significant advancements in Sustainable Fashion. The exhibition emphasized the use of fibre yarns dyed with natural dyes, including Excel yarn, as well as innovations in fibre yarns sourced from water hyacinth, bamboo, and banana plants.
The valedictory event attracted over 1,000 delegates, comprising senior management representatives from SIDBI, Aditya Birla Grasim Industries, and other distinguished individuals within the handloom sector. Moreover, the institute has formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Flipkart to facilitate the onboarding of master weavers and artisan products onto the digital marketing platform, thereby enhancing their market reach. The program was attended by more than 1000 people including buyer sellers, master weavers, faculties, staff, students of IIM Sambalpur.
Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, delivered a thought-provoking address that underscored the significant role of the handloom sector in preserving India's rich cultural heritage. Prof. Jaiswalsaid, “Our focus on reviving India's handloom industry is part of sustainable approach. Through the creation of Project: "Bunkarvalley.com," we aspire to create a hub similar to Silicon Valley, dedicated to revitalizing and promoting handloom crafts in national and international markets. This initiative nurtures both human and environmental well-being. By emphasizing the five Ps of marketing such as Product, Price, Place, Promotion, and People, we tried to equip weavers alike our MBA students with the tools to elevate traditional handloom products to the global market. This initiative is not just a local effort but a movement with the potential to transform India's economy."
Keshav Rao, Director (Personnel), MCL, emphasized the significance of digital platforms in improving market accessibility and underscored the potential for innovation to transform the sector and said, "The exceptional quality of handloom products of the Sambalpur region serves as a testament to the talent and dedication of weavers, who have garnered national recognition. The initiative, spearheaded by Prof. Jaiswal, represents a unique endeavor aimed at revitalizing and promoting the handloom industry and is a noble cause. I am confident that through this approach, we will witness Sambalpur emerge as a hub for sustainable business practices."
Arup Kumar, CGM and Eastern Zonal In-charge, SIDBI, highlighted the cluster intervention programme being conducted by SIDBI in collaboration with IIMs and IITs to enhance the capabilities of small and medium enterprises, particularly within the handloom sector.
He stated, "We believe that transformation is the result of a collective vision and resolute action. When changemakers such as SIDBI collaborate with institutions like IIM Sambalpur and other dedicated partners, we do more than merely elevate small enterprises; we cultivate innovation and foster inclusive growth. This endeavor transcends individual progress, as it aligns our efforts with the broader aspirations of our nation. By integrating appropriate strategies and support systems, we empower businesses to not only survive but thrive, ensuring that every step we take collectively contributes to the larger narrative of national development and success."
