eSARAS: Expanding Markets, Empowering Rural Women
Why in News?
eSARAS is in the news because the Press Information Bureau (PIB) released a comprehensive update highlighting how this digital marketplace is transforming rural livelihoods by directly connecting over 8.62 crore women Self-Help Group (SHG) members to national and institutional markets.
What is eSARAS?
- Official Online Marketplace: Created for authentic handcrafted, handloom, and natural products made by rural women.
- Nodal Ministry: Developed by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD).
- Parent Scheme: Runs under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
- Elimination of Intermediaries: Operates with a zero-middlemen model to ensure fair remuneration reaches the artisans directly.
Key Features & Platform Evolution
The platform has evolved from a basic portal into a robust multi-channel sales ecosystem:
| Platform Component |
Core Function / Detail |
| eSARAS Web Portal |
The central online hub (esaras.in) for listing and digital marketing. |
| eSARAS Mobile App |
A customer-friendly app allowing users to buy products, rate items, and give direct feedback. |
| Fulfillment Centre |
A dedicated facility used for systematic processing, packaging, and shipping of SHG goods. |
| ONDC Integration |
Connects SHG products across 11+ commercial buyer apps, reaching over 20 crore shoppers. |
| UMANG Integration |
Embeds eSARAS into India's central public service app to drive seamless public accessibility. |
| SARAS Shakti Collection |
Premium curated gift lines tailored directly for corporate and institutional clients. |
| Physical Gallery |
A permanent retail storefront located at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, New Delhi. |
Key Product Categories Available
The platform curates cultural heritages from across India, such as Chanderi sarees from Madhya Pradesh and Pashmina from Jammu & Kashmir. These fall into six major categories:
- Handloom & Women's Apparel
- Men's Apparel & Accessories
- Home & Living Utilities
- Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Traditional & Natural Food Items
- Kids' Toys & Accessories
Impact on Rural Women & The Economy
- Digital Storefront Access: Empowers over 8.62 crore women SHG members with direct exposure to digital trade.
- Network Penetration: Spans across 7,627 blocks nationwide, supported by a vast network of 1.51 crore community cadres.
- End-to-End Support: Provides essential training in branding, standard packaging, and modern logistics management.
- Financial Autonomy: Boosts household income to help meet the goal of rural women saving at least ₹1 lakh annually.
- Cultural Preservation: Safeguards dying Indian craft traditions by giving indigenous artisans a sustainable livelihood.
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