Government Pushes Tribal Products Toward Global Markets
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal announced that all tribal products with export potential will receive full support from the Department of Commerce. This support will be channelled through e-commerce platforms, global warehouses, and retail and wholesale networks. He shared these plans at the Tribal Business Conclave 2025 in New Delhi, held in the presence of Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram.
A Landmark Event During Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh
The conclave, organised by DPIIT along with the Ministries of Tribal Affairs and Culture, marked a significant moment in the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh celebrations honouring the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda. Goyal said a dedicated export promotion scheme is being finalised to increase visibility and market access for tribal goods.
Strengthening Domestic and Global Opportunities
Goyal highlighted that both Indian and international markets offer strong potential for tribal crafts. The government is taking steps to help tribal goods grow in these markets. He noted that national progress depends on uplifting indigenous communities and ensuring development reaches households in remote and tribal regions.
Honouring Tribal Legacy and Cultural Strength
Paying tribute to Birsa Munda, Goyal emphasised the inspiration his leadership continues to provide. He praised the tribal community for protecting its traditions, skills, and craftsmanship with remarkable resilience. Their contribution to India’s cultural identity, he said, remains invaluable.
Support Systems Strengthening Tribal Enterprises
Goyal explained that the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Department of Commerce have played a major role in expanding trade opportunities for tribal products. Schools, colleges, trade bodies, and government organisations have helped bring quality goods from remote areas to national markets.
He noted that 3,900 Van Dhan Kendras have empowered 12 lakh tribal members, and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs budget has increased by 50 percent this year. Under PM-Janman Yojana, nearly 50 lakh vulnerable tribal families have benefited, supported by Rs. 24,000 crore to enhance their living conditions.
Boost to GI Registrations for Tribal Crafts
To encourage more tribal artisans to obtain Geographical Indication (GI) tags, the fee has been slashed by 80 percent—from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 1,000. This step aims to strengthen cultural preservation and boost market recognition for indigenous products.
“Van Dhan to Vyapar Dhan” Vision
Goyal concluded by encouraging stakeholders to help tribal products reach global markets, echoing the vision of “Local Goes Global.” He urged collective action to uplift tribal communities through enterprise and innovation. FICCI and PRAYOGI supported the conclave as Industry and Knowledge Partners.
Massive Participation and Innovation Platforms
The event attracted over 250 tribal enterprises, with 150 exhibitors and more than 100 tribal start-ups presenting their ideas at the “Roots to Rise” pitching platform. Entrepreneurs connected directly with investors, corporates, and government buyers, creating a thriving ecosystem for innovation and growth.
Panel Discussions, Masterclasses, and Buyer-Seller Meets
The conclave featured six panel discussions and four masterclasses, driven by 50+ experts from government, academia, and industry. Key topics included partnerships, skilling, sustainability, geographical identity, branding, and market strategies. Buyer-seller interactions helped identify new pathways for market access and policy development.
Key Announcements
1. Launch of Gramya Yuva Arth Niti (GYAN) Lab
Developed by IIT Bombay’s Ashank Desai School of Public Policy and PRAYOGI Foundation, with support from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, the GYAN Lab aims to design and test new models for tribal and rural enterprises. It will run pilots such as the Tribal Entrepreneurship Index and micro-equity incubation models.
2. Tribal Affairs Grand Challenge
Launched with Startup India and DPIIT, this challenge encourages startups to create solutions for tribal communities, offering funding, mentorship, and national visibility.
3. Roots to Rise: Pitching Outcomes
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115 enterprises shortlisted; 43 have DPIIT registrations
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10 incubators will support selected startups
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57 enterprises received investment interest worth over Rs. 10 crore
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33 startups drew interest from leading investors such as IFCI Venture Capital and Arora Venture Partners
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These enterprises have created 1,500 direct and 10,000+ indirect jobs, supporting 20,000 tribal individuals
4. Growth on Government eMarketplace
The conclave saw over 60 GeM registrations and more than 50 enquiries for Tribal Business Conclave products.
5. Distribution of GI Certificates
Artisans from across India were honoured with GI registrations for crafts such as:
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Kannadippaya (Kerala)
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Apatani Textile (Arunachal Pradesh)
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Marthandam Honey (Tamil Nadu)
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Lepcha Tungbuk (Sikkim)
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Bodo Aronai (Assam)
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Ambaji White Marble (Gujarat)
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Bedu and Badri Cow Ghee (Uttarakhand)
The recognition strengthens brand visibility and preserves India’s indigenous legacy.
