TRIFED Signs MoUs with NIFT and HPMC to Strengthen Tribal Marketing Through B2B Approach

New Delhi: In a strategic push to transition from a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) to a Business-to-Business (B2B) model for tribal marketing, the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd (TRIFED), under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has entered into key partnerships with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing & Processing Corporation Ltd. (HPMC). The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), signed on February 24 in New Delhi, mark a significant step toward strengthening tribal businesses and expanding their market reach.

The agreements were formalized in the presence of TRIFED Managing Director Shri Ashish Chatterjee and NIFT Director General Tanu Kashyap at the Aadi Mahotsav 2025, TRIFED’s flagship event held at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium from February 16-24. The MoU with NIFT was signed between TRIFED General Manager Sandeep Pahalwan and NIFT Director (Head Office) Gaurav Mishra, while the MoU with HPMC was exchanged between TRIFED General Manager Mamta Sharma and HPMC General Manager Sunny Sharma.

The collaboration with NIFT aims to enhance the design and curation of tribal handloom and handicraft products, ensuring they meet contemporary market demands while preserving traditional artistry. Meanwhile, the partnership with HPMC will focus on introducing advanced technology and improving tertiary processing for horticultural and minor forest products, helping tribal producers scale their businesses effectively.

The signing of these MoUs aligns with TRIFED’s vision of integrating tribal products into mainstream markets, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for tribal artisans and entrepreneurs.

The Aadi Mahotsav 2025, inaugurated by President of India Droupadi Murmu on February 16, saw the presence of Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durga Das Uikey, and Member of Parliament Ms. Bansuri Swaraj. The festival has been a key platform for showcasing India’s diverse tribal heritage and promoting indigenous products.