TRIFED Signs Strategic MoUs with Meesho, IFCA & MGIRI to Boost Tribal Livelihoods and Empower Communities.
New Delhi:
In a landmark step towards improving the economic well-being of tribal communities, the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED) has signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Meesho, the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA), and the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialization (MGIRI). The MoUs were exchanged on 18 February 2025 during the ongoing ‘Aadi Mahotsav’, a flagship tribal festival at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, which is being held from 16 to 24 February 2025.
The newly formed collaborations aim to facilitate the transition from a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) to a Business-to-Business (B2B) approach for tribal businesses, thereby improving their access to markets and enhancing their income opportunities. The principal goal of the agreement with Meesho is to integrate tribal products into their popular social commerce platform, enabling tribal suppliers to access a broader customer base. Meesho will also offer training and capacity-building programs for these suppliers, empowering them to make the most of the digital platform.
The partnership with the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA) focuses on forging long-term alliances between tribal communities and culinary professionals, including hotel chains. IFCA will use its technological platform to establish sustainable linkages between tribal producers and the hospitality industry.
Additionally, the collaboration with the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialization (MGIRI) as a knowledge partner will facilitate the training and capacity building of artisans, helping them hone their skills and further integrate them into the larger economy.
The MoUs were exchanged by TRIFED General Managers in the presence of Ashish Chatterjee, Managing Director of TRIFED, and the respective representatives: Prachi Bhuchar, Head of Public Policy & Government Affairs at Meesho; Chef Manjit Gill, IFCA; and Dr. Ashutosh A. Murkute, Director of MGIRI.
This strategic initiative is part of TRIFED’s ongoing efforts to promote the socio-economic development of tribal communities across India. The organization continues to support the empowerment of tribal people through various ventures aimed at bringing them closer to mainstream development.
The ‘Aadi Mahotsav’ festival, which was inaugurated on 16 February 2025 by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, serves as a vibrant platform for celebrating tribal entrepreneurship, crafts, cuisine, and culture. Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Shri Jual Oram, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Shri Durga Das Uikey, and Member of Parliament Bansuri Swaraj also attended the opening ceremony, underscoring the government’s commitment to the welfare of tribal communities.
About TRIFED
TRIFED, under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, works towards the socio-economic upliftment of tribal communities by promoting tribal products and facilitating their market access. It organizes the “Aadi Mahotsav – National Tribal Festival” to showcase the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of tribal people, offering them direct access to markets in metro cities and state capitals.
About Meesho
Meesho is a leading Indian e-commerce platform focused on social commerce, providing individuals and small businesses with the opportunity to sell products online, primarily via social media channels like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. The platform offers a broad range of products, including clothing, accessories, and home goods.
About IFCA
The Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA) is a professional body representing chefs and culinary professionals in India. It promotes the development of the culinary arts through education, networking, and collaboration within the hospitality industry.
About MGIRI
The Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Rural Industrialization (MGIRI) is an institution dedicated to promoting rural industrialization and sustainable development in India. It aims to carry forward Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of self-reliant and sustainable rural industries.
