Empowering Artisans: The Rural Mart Initiative
The Rural Mart is a strategic retail venture designed to bridge the gap between rural craftsmanship and modern markets. Supported by NABARD, guided by ODP, and implemented by the Mahilodaya Women Federation, this initiative serves as a centralized platform for artisans and Self-Help Group (SHG) women to showcase their talent, scale their businesses, and achieve economic independence.
Our Core Vision
To create a sustainable ecosystem where rural producers can sell handcrafted and agro-based products at competitive rates. By providing a “common roof” for diverse goods, we facilitate vital marketing linkages that empower women and preserve traditional craftsmanship.
Strategic Retail Outlets: Mysuru & Mandya
We have established two flagship Rural Mart outlets in the urban centres of Mysuru and Mandya. These hubs act as a vital link between rural production and urban demand, offering an eclectic range of authentic products:
- Handicrafts & Lifestyle: Intricate wire baskets, sustainable bamboo bags, handcrafted candles, incense sticks (agarbattis), and eco-friendly stationery.
- Agro-Based Essentials: Premium millets and powders, pure honey, farm-fresh turmeric, pepper, and tamarind.
- Artisanal Food Products: Traditional masala powders, crisp papads, and savory mixtures.
- Cold-Pressed Edible Oils: A healthy selection including Groundnut, Sunflower, Agase (Flaxseed), Kusub (Safflower), and Castor oils.
Impact & Growth
The Rural Mart is more than a store; it is a catalyst for community transformation. Through dedicated awareness campaigns, we have integrated over 250 SHG members into the formal economy.
- Economic Milestone: To date, our marts have generated a turnover exceeding ₹1,000,000, maintaining a robust 15% profit margin that sustains the initiative.
- Community Integration: We actively educate SHG members on market standards while building a loyal customer base within local communities who value quality and social impact.
Exhibitions & Global Outreach
Beyond our permanent outlets, we take the spirit of rural entrepreneurship to the grand stage. Our Sale-cum-Exhibition events—notably hosted during International Women’s Day and global summits at the St. Philomena’s College campus, Mysuru—have garnered acclaim from intellectuals, students, and the general public alike.
These exhibitions serve as a testament to the resilience of rural producers and the effectiveness of ODP’s mission to foster inclusive growth.
Supporting Rural Mart means supporting the heartbeat of rural India. Experience the fusion of tradition, quality, and empowerment.