To
facilitate rural entrepreneurs reach national markets, the Department of Posts
is foraying into the e-commerce sector.
The
new initiative will be on the lines of a pilot e-commerce model implemented at
Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.
India
Post is planning to enter e-commerce with the aim of promoting the interests of
small and middle-level manufactures, artisans, craftsmen, weavers in the rural
areas and open rural markets like how the urban manufacturers and business
entrepreneurs were being benefited.
“We
are in the process of establishing links with rural entrepreneurs, weavers,
artisans, craftsmen and others and enter into an understanding with them for
marketing their produce to the clientele across the country,” he informed.
On
the expected time of roll-out of the initiative, Mr. Kumar said, “The roll-out
is expected soon with at least a few products.”
Citing
an example, the postmaster general said Channapatna toys had been proposed for
inclusion in the e-commerce biz.
On
whether the initiative gives competition to the e-commerce giants, Mr. Kumar
said, “Our venture is different from entities in the e-commerce business as our
initiative is only to market the rural produce. It does not sell branded
commercial goods but products like honey and coffee from Coorg as being done at
Postal Shoppee.”
To
a question on the status of tie-ups with rural entrepreneurs, he said, “The
postal divisions are exploring the possibilities of an agreement with the
groups or societies of weavers, craftsmen, and others.”
“Anybody
sitting in the remotest corner of the country can order for the products
available in another corner. With an unbeatable network, the delivery will be
faster.”
//copy// The Hindu
