IIM Sambalpur Empowers Odisha's Weavers with Specialized Business Training

15 July 2024, NEW DELHI: In a significant initiative aimed at empowering the traditional weaving community of Western Odisha, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM Sambalpur) has launched the second edition of its ‘Small Business Management Training Programme’. This 12-day weekend certificate course, supported by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), is designed to equip master weavers with essential business and digital marketing skills, ensuring their craft’s sustainability and market growth.

IIM Sambalpur: Tradition and Modernity

Conducted under the aegis of the Centre for Responsible Business, the program covers a broad spectrum of topics including design, digital marketing, Goods and Services Tax (GST), financial management, operations, and communication skills. About 25 master weavers are participating in this training, which focuses on leveraging digital platforms such as Flipkart, Amazon, and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to expand their market reach.

Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, highlighted the institute’s dedication to supporting India’s indigenous handloom industry. “The upcoming phase of training aims to enhance the weavers’ skills in market creation,” he said. “The curriculum includes the five Ps of marketing—Product, Price, Place, Promotion, and People—and an exploration of global market trends.”

Support and Market Expansion

Jaiswal also emphasized the necessity of incubation support for these artisans. “We are initiating a startup aimed at global product marketing, with the ultimate goal of establishing a ‘Bunkar Valley,’ akin to Silicon Valley, to elevate India’s weaving industry on the global stage,” he added.

The program stands out by offering business education in the local Odia language, making IIM Sambalpur the first management institute in India to do so. This approach ensures that master weavers can grasp fundamental business concepts such as GST, invoicing, and marketing without language barriers.

Akshay Sunil Agrawal, District Magistrate and Collector of Sambalpur, underscored the importance of understanding sustainability challenges. “Our aim should not only be to survive but to thrive. Understanding market demands and bridging information and economic disparities are crucial. Initiatives like this, integrating feedback and interactive sessions, play a vital role in tackling challenges and devising solutions.”

IIM Sambalpur: Preserving Heritage and Empowering Artisans

National award-winning weavers like Ramkrishna Meher and Surendra Meher have praised the program’s impact. “Many artists and scientists from around the world come to this region to learn the art of weaving, which cannot be replicated by machinery,” said Ramkrishna Meher. “IIM Sambalpur’s efforts in training weavers and helping their products reach international markets have significantly improved their lives, preserving the weaving culture and advancing the tradition.”

Surendra Meher, another acclaimed weaver, remarked on the deep cultural roots of Sambalpuri weaving. “Sambalpuri weaving, dating back to the 14th century, is the intellectual property of the weavers. No machine can replace the artisans. IIM Sambalpur is integral in transforming the lives of the weaver community and safeguarding Odisha’s rich heritage.”

Future-Oriented Projects

With its innovative approach, IIM Sambalpur is setting a precedent in combining traditional crafts with modern business acumen. The program not only aims to enhance the weavers’ skills but also seeks to create a sustainable and thriving future for the weaving industry in Odisha. This initiative exemplifies how educational institutions can play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage while promoting economic development.

IIM Sambalpur’s program is a beacon of hope for the weaving community, integrating traditional skills with modern business strategies to ensure sustainable growth. This initiative highlights the potential of educational institutions to foster economic development while preserving cultural heritage, creating a model for similar efforts nationwide. The success of this program could pave the way for the global recognition of India’s rich weaving traditions. For more details visit official website.