Faridabad Tourism Department Plans E-Commerce Portal for Surajkund Mela Artisans
The tourism department of Haryana is actively considering the creation of a specialized news-and-commerce website dedicated to showcasing and selling products crafted by artisans participating in the renowned Surajkund Crafts Mela. This strategic initiative was officially disclosed by department officials on Saturday, with the primary objective of providing these skilled craftsmen with unprecedented global exposure.
Inspired by Success Stories
Officials highlighted the transformative journey of Kolhapuri chappals as a key inspiration for this proposal. They noted how this traditional Indian footwear evolved from a local craft into an internationally recognized brand that now commands premium prices in global markets. The department aims to replicate similar success stories by leveraging digital platforms to connect artisans directly with consumers worldwide.
Year-Round Market Access
The proposed e-commerce platform is specifically designed to address a critical challenge faced by traditional artisans: limited selling opportunities. Currently, most artisans get to showcase and sell their products only once or twice annually at large fairs like the Surajkund Mela. The new website would enable them to reach potential buyers throughout the year, significantly expanding their market presence beyond seasonal events.
Economic Empowerment Through Direct Sales
Tourism secretary-level officials emphasized that this initiative would help artisans retain a larger share of their profits by eliminating middlemen from the sales process. By creating a direct connection between creators and consumers, the platform aims to ensure that artisans receive fair compensation for their craftsmanship while making their products more accessible to a global audience.
Announcement at 39th Surajkund Mela Inauguration
The proposal was formally shared on the sidelines of the inauguration ceremony for the 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Shilp Mela 2026 in Faridabad. The prestigious event was inaugurated by Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan, who was joined by distinguished guests including:
- Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini
- Union Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal Gurjar
- Heritage and Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma
- Senior officials from both central and state governments
Vice-President's Vision for Traditional Crafts
During his address at the inauguration, Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan described the Surajkund Mela as a living embodiment of India's civilizational ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). He highlighted the mela's nearly four-decade legacy in providing global recognition to traditional artisans, weavers, and folk artists.
The Vice-President also underscored the importance of government initiatives like the PM Vishwakarma Yojana in strengthening the artisan ecosystem. He emphasized how such schemes, combined with innovative digital approaches, could create sustainable livelihoods for India's traditional craftspeople while preserving cultural heritage.
Current Status and Future Prospects
While the e-commerce website proposal is currently on the tourism department's idea list, officials confirmed that serious exploration is underway to transform this concept into reality. The initiative represents a significant step toward modernizing traditional craft marketing while maintaining the authenticity and cultural significance of handmade products.
This digital transformation effort aligns with broader national goals of promoting indigenous crafts and supporting artisan communities through technological integration and market access expansion.
