Sambalpur: In line with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the Indian Institute of Management, Sambalpur (IIM-S) is set to globally promote the traditional Sambalpuri handloom of Ikat through online platforms.
The institute is in talks with e-commerce major Flipkart for a tie-up in this regard. “If everything goes as per plan, an MoU will be signed with the e-commerce company in New Delhi next month,” IIM-S Director Mahadeo Jaiswal informed.
Earlier, the premier B-School had conducted a survey on Sambalpuri handloom weavers.
As per the survey, it was found that Ikat needs marketing platforms and modern designs to expand its reach to global consumers.
Business Boost For Weavers
Jaiswal said there is also a need to improve the financial literacy of weavers and train them in doing business. “There are several weavers who have exceptional skills, but are unaware of the ways of doing business at national and global markets. The institute will organise workshops and training programmes for such weavers,” he added.
This apart, discussions will be held with the weavers on new and modern designs. For this, the institute will rope in professional designers and create a fund. “We have planned to approach PSUs for funds under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for the purpose,” the B-School director informed.
Notably, around 5,500 weavers work under Sambalpuri Bastralaya Handloom Cooperative Society. Besides, there are around 25,000 others from Bargarh, Sambalpur, Sonepur, Balangir and Kalahandi districts in Western Odisha.
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