Agartala, November 9:
A new initiative titled “Shantiniketan E-Haat” began today with the aim of connecting rural craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and digital technology to bring a new wave of hope to Tripura’s economy. The weekly event will be held every Sunday evening at the premises of Tripura Shantiniketan Medical College, near Agartala.
Organised by Positive Barta, the Shantiniketan E-Haat (or E-Market) seeks to create a creative collaboration between rural artisans, innovators, and social media influencers. The project’s core vision is to bridge the gap between rural and modern India by enabling local artisans to sell their handmade products directly to a larger digital market. Beyond being just a marketplace, the E-Haat aims to become a cultural hub where folk music, dance, painting, handicrafts, and traditional art forms are celebrated equally.
A unique feature of this initiative is the participation of social media influencers, who will promote these artistic products and cultural activities to millions of online viewers. This partnership ensures dual benefits — rural artisans gain visibility and market access, while influencers find new opportunities for income and creative engagement. It represents a symbiotic blend of rural art and the digital content economy.
Positive Barta’s founder, Moloy Peet, said, “Rabindranath Tagore envisioned a bridge between villages and cities. Through digital India, we are trying to give that dream a new form, and Shantiniketan E-Haat is part of that effort.”
The E-Haat was inaugurated by Dr. Haimanti Bhattacharjee, Chief Advisor of Positive Barta, in the presence of NHM Joint Mission Director Dr. Nupur Debbarma, social worker Supriya Chakraborty, and other dignitaries. On its very first day, 50 women entrepreneurs participated, and all their products were completely sold out — a sign that this initiative could truly spark positive change in Tripura’s socio-economic landscape.
