The Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, has unveiled a wide-ranging initiative to promote tribal products in international markets, emphasizing stronger export support, digital integration, and enterprise development. Speaking at the Tribal Business Conclave 2025 in New Delhi, the minister said that all tribal items with export potential will be supported through e-commerce platforms, overseas warehouses, and global wholesale networks.
A dedicated export promotion scheme is currently being designed to significantly improve international visibility and market access for tribal goods. Highlighting the government’s vision, Goyal described the shift as a move from “Van Dhan to Vyapar Dhan,” underscoring a renewed focus on economic empowerment during Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh.
Stronger Financial and Institutional Support for Tribal Communities
The government has sharply increased investments aimed at uplifting tribal populations:
- The Ministry of Tribal Affairs’ budget has grown by 50% this year.
- The PM-Janman Yojana has already disbursed ₹24,000 crore (US$ 2.71 billion) to nearly 50 lakh beneficiaries from particularly vulnerable tribal groups.
- Over 3,900 Van Dhan Kendras have supported 21 lakh tribal members, expanding opportunities for processing, marketing, and enterprise formation.
To promote indigenous products and protect traditional knowledge, the government has reduced Geographical Indication (GI) registration fees by 80%, from ₹5,000 to ₹1,000—encouraging more communities to safeguard their artistic and cultural heritage.
Innovation Platforms and Startup Initiatives Launched
The conclave also saw the introduction of major innovation initiatives aimed at building scalable tribal enterprises:
- Gramya Yuva Arth Niti (GYAN) Lab
Developed by IIT Bombay and PRAYOGI Foundation, the GYAN Lab will function as an interactive public policy platform enabling real-time pilots, digital innovation, and scalable models for tribal entrepreneurship.
- Tribal Affairs Grand Challenge
Launched in partnership with Startup India and DPIIT, this initiative invites startups and enterprises to design high-impact solutions for tribal communities, supported by mentorship and funding.
- Roots to Rise Pitching Platform
- 115 enterprises participated
- 43 of them hold DPIIT recognition
- Over ₹10 crore (US$ 1.13 million) in investment interest received from 50+ venture capitalists and investors
- These enterprises have created 1,500 direct and over 10,000 indirect jobs, benefitting 20,000+ tribal individuals
The event also saw more than 60 registrations on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and featured the distribution of GI certificates for unique indigenous products such as Kannadippaya Bamboo Mat, Apatani Textile, and Marthandam Honey.
Positioning Tribal Enterprises at the Center of Growth
The government’s continued focus on integrating tribal communities into global value chains reflects a broader development agenda—one that elevates indigenous craftsmanship, drives entrepreneurship, and strengthens livelihoods. By improving digital access, lowering compliance barriers, and opening new export pathways, the policy aims to build a more inclusive and globally competitive tribal economy.
Summary
At the Tribal Business Conclave 2025, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced a comprehensive push to promote tribal products globally through e-commerce, international warehousing, and a forthcoming export promotion scheme. The government has expanded financial support via PM-Janman Yojana and strengthened institutional mechanisms like Van Dhan Kendras. New innovation platforms—including the GYAN Lab, Tribal Affairs Grand Challenge, and Roots to Rise—are fostering scalable tribal enterprises, attracting investments, and generating substantial employment. Reduced GI registration fees and new product certifications further highlight the government’s commitment to preserving indigenous heritage while driving global market access for tribal communities.
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