NEW DELHI (India CSR): In a landmark move to support India’s tribal communities, HCLFoundation, the CSR arm of global tech giant HCLTech, has partnered with the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED). Announced on February 19, 2025, this collaboration seeks to empower approximately 4,500 tribal artisans by enhancing their skills, providing market access, and promoting their unique crafts on HCLFoundation’s My E-Haat platform.
This partnership is more than just a business initiative—it’s a step toward preserving India’s rich cultural heritage while creating sustainable livelihoods for indigenous communities.
A Partnership Rooted in Empowerment
The collaboration between HCLFoundation and TRIFED brings together decades of expertise in community development and tribal welfare. TRIFED, with over 30 years of experience in marketing indigenous products, has been a cornerstone in supporting tribal artisans. By joining hands with HCLFoundation, the initiative aims to scale these efforts and create a more significant impact.
Sandeep Pahalwan, General Manager (I/c), Marketing, TRIFED, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “TRIFED has over three decades of experience in marketing indigenous products. By collaborating with HCLFoundation, we aim to further improve the livelihood opportunities for tribal artisans.”
Training and Market Access: A Game-Changer for Artisans
One of the key components of this initiative is the training program designed to equip artisans with modern skills and techniques. These workshops will focus on enhancing the quality of their products, ensuring they meet contemporary market standards while retaining their traditional essence.
Additionally, the My E-Haat platform will serve as a digital marketplace, connecting artisans directly with customers. This eliminates middlemen, ensuring that artisans receive fair compensation for their work. The platform will showcase a wide range of tribal crafts, from handwoven textiles to intricate jewelry, giving customers a chance to own a piece of India’s cultural legacy.
Preserving Culture, Building Futures
Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, Sr. Vice President, Global CSR at HCLTech and Director of HCLFoundation, highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative: “This partnership with TRIFED is another example of our commitment to fostering long-term, sustainable change in communities. By empowering tribal artisans with the skills, resources and market access they need, we are contributing to preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage.”
This initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on decent work, economic growth, and reduced inequalities. By empowering tribal artisans, the partnership contributes to building inclusive and sustainable communities.
A Step Toward a Brighter Future
The HCLFoundation-TRIFED partnership is a shining example of how corporate social responsibility can drive meaningful change. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared vision, the two organizations are paving the way for a brighter future for India’s tribal artisans.
As the initiative unfolds, it promises to not only uplift individual lives but also preserve the cultural diversity that makes India unique. For customers, it’s an opportunity to support ethical and sustainable practices while owning beautifully crafted, culturally significant products.
(India CSR)
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