In order to empower tribal artisans from Visakhapatnam  and promote sustainable livelihoods, the Visakhapatnam Division of Andhra Pradesh Forest Department recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Amazon India. 

The strategic partnership leverages the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the tribal communities residing in Sambhuvanipalem in the middle of Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary.

The move aims to provide global platform for these artisans by listing their handcrafted products on Amazon’s e-commerce platform.

The Amazon Karigar Programme will not only create new income opportunities but foster sustainable economic development.

In addition, tribal artisans will receive valuable training in product value addition, packaging, and branding thereby empowering them to sell their products online.

Under this initiative,   the Forest Department will also establish an e-commerce  to streamline operations by managing packaging, storage order processing and storage despatch.

The MoU between Amazon India and the Vishakhapatnam Forest Division underscores Amazon India’s dedication to social responsibility and sustainability, aligning with its mission to create positive impacts in the communities it serves, said Mr. Anant Shankar, IFS, District Forest Officer, Visakhapatnam.