My E-Haat, an initiative by the HCL Foundation, is a platform designed to strengthen the value chain of handicrafts, placing artisans at its core, and integrating both the supply and demand sides of the market. The uniqueness of My E-Haat lies in its holistic approach. By developing a portal where artisans can directly list and showcase their products, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between them and the market. This direct connection not only ensures better profit margins for the artisans by minimizing the role of intermediaries but also provides a platform for them to narrate their stories.
My E-Haat Conclave, a national-level assembly, was organized as a one-day event to delve into the multitude of challenges faced by artisans and women entrepreneurs, particularly in strengthening their value chains. The objective was to assemble public and private stakeholders, including government departments, CSR bodies, NGOs, and industry experts, under one roof and to derive recommendations and chart a way forward.
As part of the conclave, there were two panel discussions – 'Strengthening Craft Economy through Collaboration' and 'Future of Craft Cooperatives in India'. These discussions focused on how collaboration and cooperative models can be leveraged to enhance the capabilities of artisans and connect them with wider markets, thereby strengthening the artisan landscape.
Cooperatives play a critical role in this regard. They are recognized by governments and international agencies as instrumental in promoting inclusive and sustainable development. They address not only economic but also social, environmental, and cultural issues. The inclusion of cooperatives in UNESCO's list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2016 underscores their significance in preserving traditional arts and crafts.
The C20 Policy Pack released during India’s G20 Presidency highlights the need to support artisan cooperatives. It advocates for the establishment and support of cooperatives that unite artisans, providing them with the necessary training, resources, and marketing support. This policy recommendation aligns with the goals of My E-Haat, reinforcing the platform's relevance and potential impact.
Internationally, artisan cooperatives have been successful in supporting indigenous communities to preserve and promote their arts, culture, and livelihood. Examples like the Arctic Cooperative in Canada, Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Cooperative in Australia, COWHED in the Philippines, and the Anou Cooperative in Morocco illustrate the global reach and effectiveness of such cooperatives. These organizations not only support artisans in marketing their products but also provide spaces for cultural expression and community building.
Initiatives like My E-Haat stand as a model of innovation and empowerment in the handicraft sector. By leveraging technology, fostering collaboration, and promoting cooperative models, it has the potential to transform the lives of artisans, preserving their crafts and traditions while connecting them to markets.
