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Aabhar Online Store on GeM portal

Indian Railways to Promote ‘Aabhar’ Online Store to Support Local Artisans

Analysis Date: November 01, 2025

Why in News?

The Indian Railways has announced its decision to patronise the newly launched ‘Aabhar’ online store, hosted on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), to encourage local artisans, handloom weavers, and traditional industries under the Vocal for Local campaign.

Overview

  • Objective: To promote indigenous talent, local products, and traditional craftsmanship by sourcing gifts and official event items from local artisans.
  • Hosted on: Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform.
  • Source Organisations:
    • Central Cottage Industries Emporium (CCIE)
    • Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
    • Central and State Handicraft & Handloom Emporiums
  • Focus Products: Handicrafts, handlooms, tribal artefacts, and One District One Product (ODOP) and Geographical Indication (GI) certified products.

Key Focus Areas

Source Organisations
CCIE
KVIC
State Emporiums
Focus Products
Handicrafts & Handlooms
Tribal Artefacts
ODOP & GI Products

Key Objectives

  • Encourage local artisans, tribal craftsmen, and women-led enterprises.
  • Promote India’s rich cultural and craft heritage through official gifting and event merchandise.
  • Strengthen social inclusion and sustainable development.
  • Provide market access and fair opportunities to rural entrepreneurs and indigenous producers.

About the ‘Aabhar’ Initiative

  • Developed under the guidance of the GeM portal, the initiative aims to integrate traditional artisans into the modern e-commerce framework.
  • Enables government departments and institutions, including Indian Railways, to purchase local products directly from verified artisan groups.
  • Encourages eco-friendly, handmade, and sustainable products in line with the Vocal for Local and Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Connection with Indian Railways’ OSOP Scheme

  • The One Station One Product (OSOP) scheme was launched to promote indigenous and regional products across railway stations.
  • It provides marketing space for local crafts, such as handlooms, handicrafts, and tribal artefacts, enabling direct sales to passengers.
  • The new ‘Aabhar’ store complements this initiative by expanding sales channels to online markets.

Significance

  • Strengthens India’s rural economy and micro-enterprises.
  • Enhances visibility and market reach of traditional products.
  • Promotes sustainable livelihoods among tribal and artisan communities.
  • Encourages cultural preservation and women’s economic empowerment through handicraft-based employment.

Quick Facts

Initiative ‘Aabhar’ Online Store
Implemented by Indian Railways in collaboration with GeM
Key Partners CCIE, KVIC, State Handloom & Handicraft Emporiums
Objective Promote local artisans, handlooms, and traditional industries
Linked Campaigns Vocal for Local, Atmanirbhar Bharat
Complementary Scheme One Station One Product (OSOP)
Core Focus ODOP and GI-based products
Goal Inclusive and sustainable economic development