Partnership to enable Haryana MSMEs to expand their domestic and export capabilities, and join online and offline supply chains
CHANDIGARH, India, August 3, 2021: Walmart and Flipkart have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of Haryana, to help MSMEs enhance their domestic and global markets through the Vriddhi program. The program, delivered by knowledge partner Swasti, will provide training and support to interested and select MSMEs from Haryana free of cost, through a blended learning approach, while also facilitating access to online and offline selling. Additionally, with the partnership, trainings, seminars, and workshops will be organized for Haryana MSMEs so that they can access information on the program and how to enroll.
Commenting on the MoU, Shri Dushyant Chautala, Deputy Chief Minister, Haryana, said, “Haryana has a robust micro, small and medium enterprises sector of over 9.7 lakh units that contribute significantly to industrial growth, in addition to providing employment to more than 19 lakh people. The partnership provides an opportunity for local businesses to become self- reliant and will boost their reach into national markets and facilitate their participation in global value chains. It will also promote regional development and promote products by local artisans and craftsmen to further showcase ‘Brand Haryana’ on the global stage.”
Nittin Dutt, Senior Director, Walmart, and Head of Walmart Vriddhi said, “Walmart looks forward to expanding the Vriddhi program in Haryana. The state is home to a vibrant MSME ecosystem, and we are proud to have inaugurated our first ever e-Institute in the city of Panipat in 2020. We appreciate the Government of Haryana’s dedication to expanding growth opportunities for MSMEs and look forward to supporting them with access online and offline markets in India and globally, creating opportunities for sustained and enhanced growth. This is also in line with our commitment towards sourcing more goods from India, so our consumers can access quality goods from India, no matter where in the world they are buying. India is a key market for us, and we are committed to helping support and grow communities wherever we operate.”
Launched in December 2019, Vriddhi helps MSMEs develop the business skills needed to succeed as suppliers to Walmart, Flipkart, and other companies in India and around the world. The first Vriddhi e-Institute was rolled out in Haryana in October 2020, launched in the presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Haryana Mr. Manohar Lal Khatter, serves MSMEs from the Panipat-Sonipat-Kundli region. Entrepreneurs there are now working through the multi-level training program, with some already onboarded to Flipkart to expand their digital capabilities and sell across India via the Flipkart marketplace
With e-Institutes in Panipat and Agra, the program provides a digitally enhanced learning experience through online modules with personalized feedback and one-on-one advisory sessions. The goal is to empower 50,000 MSMEs over five years. As Walmart triples its exports from India to $10 billion annually by 2027, businesses with export ambitions can learn how to qualify as a Walmart Global Sourcing supplier, taking “Make in India” products to the world.
Shama Karkal, CEO (Chief Executive Officers), Swasti said, “The MoU between Swasti and the Government of Haryana will enhance the growth and development of MSMEs in the state. Through Walmart’s Vriddhi program, we are committed to supporting MSMEs in providing critical market access to help them build resilience for the future.”
Vriddhi participants are currently benefiting from a tailored “Response to COVID-19″ training module that presents actionable advice and relevant case studies to guide MSMEs on navigating the impact of COVID-19 on their workforce and business. Easy-to-implement guidelines provide practical advice on overcoming the on-ground market challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
Walmart and Flipkart will continue its efforts to support the Government of Haryana in empowering MSMEs, through the Flipkart marketplace, Flipkart Wholesale ecosystem and Walmart’s global sourcing operations.
About Walmart
Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) helps people around the world save money and live better – anytime and anywhere – in retail stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 220 million customers and members visit approximately 10,500 stores and clubs under 48 banners in 24 countries and eCommerce websites. With fiscal year 2021 revenue of $559 billion, Walmart employs 2.2 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart and on Twitter at twitter.com/walmart.
About Swasti
Swasti, a part of the Catalyst Group, is headquartered in Bengaluru, India and active globally with a footprint in 30 countries, was founded in 2004. Swasti co-designs demonstrable and scalable solution models in partnership with communities on the ground and influences policies nationally and internationally. Over the past 15 years, Swasti has directly reached over 400,000 people through its initiatives, including more than 238,000 factory workers, the majority of whom are women.
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