My e-haat: Empowering artisans through tech-driven e-commerce platform
India’s rich heritage of crafts and cultures is facing challenges due to rapid technological advancements and fast-fashion consumption trends. The handloom and handicraft sector, India’s second-largest employment generator, has been adversely affected by cheaper, power-loom made fabrics.
To counteract these challenges, HCL Foundation, the CSR arm of HCL Technologies, launched My Ehaat, an inclusive e-commerce platform designed to empower artisans and strengthen the handicraft sector value chain. The platform allows artisans to list and showcase their products directly to customers, free of charge.
My E-haat addresses authenticity and fair pricing concerns by partnering with Kosha for the HCL Foundation-supported Khadi Cluster in Amravati, Maharashtra. To provide recognition and market share to artisans, AI and cloud computing technology-based devices have been installed, verifying the authenticity of handwoven Khadi for national and international markets.
These geo-tag devices, attached to looms, count weaving oscillations and use AI algorithms to determine whether a fabric is machinemade or handwoven. Data is stored in a blockchain model, continually updated at each stage of value addition. By scanning a QR code, end-users can access information about the fabric’s origin, weaving time, and weaver’s story.
As part of the next phase, four more HCL Foundationsupported clusters - Pochampally, Banarsi Silk, Chikankari, and crochet - will be trained for Kosha technology. The North-east Handloom & Handicraft Development Corporation and ODOP, Invest India also support the technology. Additionally, clusters have access to Craftmark Certification, which authenticates genuine handicrafts, ensuring fair practices, ethical sourcing, and authentic craft procedures. This certification enhances visibility and business in both national and international markets.
In conclusion, My E-haat is empowering artisans with livelihood opportunities while promoting traditional handicraft skills backed by technology, embodying the “vocal for local” ethos.