Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam has initiated its Eco-Shop on Amazon and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), creating an avenue for local artisans to market biodiversity-related products. This initiative aims to enhance visibility for locally crafted items, enabling fringe communities to access broader national and international markets.

The Eco-Shop is part of a sustained effort by Kaziranga to connect conservation with local livelihoods. By promoting products that utilise traditional skills and sustainably sourced materials, the initiative aspires to benefit both artisans and the environment.

Dr Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve, noted that the launch aims to strengthen market access for artisan groups. The initiative highlights the rich cultural and craft heritage of the Kaziranga landscape, which is known for its unique biodiversity and natural beauty.

Sales Performance and Community Impact

The Eco-Shop, managed by the Kaziranga Staff Welfare Society since its inception two years ago, has reportedly generated impressive sales figures. In the financial year 2024-25, the total sales reached Rs 1.24 crore, which rose to Rs 1.87 crore in 2025-26. This growth underscores the positive impact of the initiative on local communities.

Dr Ghosh explained that the Eco-Shop showcases a diverse array of handcrafted and eco-friendly products, including woven articles, textile goods, and decorative items. Popular offerings from community members include handloom textiles, woodcraft, edibles like pickles and honey, and eco-friendly items made from water hyacinth.

In addition, the Ministry of Textiles’ SAMARTH scheme has facilitated skill development workshops, benefiting over 300 women and creating a ready market for their woven products in the Eco-Shop. This training has bolstered existing traditional practices while promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Focus on Traditional Crafts and Natural Dyes

The products sold through the Eco-Shop often feature traditional animal motifs and are crafted using natural dyes derived from indigenous resources. This approach not only enhances the uniqueness of the items but also aligns with ecological sustainability.

According to Dr Ghosh, marrying traditional ecological knowledge with modern market demands has enabled artisans to produce products that resonate with consumers both locally and beyond. This dual focus on heritage and modernity serves to elevate the artisans’ crafts while ensuring ecological viability.

By linking its artisanal products to major online platforms like Amazon and GeM, Kaziranga National Park’s initiative aims to improve visibility and ensure consistent demand for these handmade items. This strategy not only supports individual artisans but also reinforces the socio-economic fabric of local communities.

The commitment of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve to community-based conservation and livelihood initiatives reflects a broader mandate. The focus on empowering local knowledge through artisanal enterprises demonstrates an effort to maintain the ecological balance while enhancing the livelihood opportunities for residents in the region.

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