C-Mart: Bridging the gap between rural and urban markets, strengthening rural economy

Raipur. C-Mart scheme has emerged as a successful initiative in bridging the gap between rural and urban markets, fostering the development of the rural economy by facilitating the sale of locally-made products. Notably, C-Marts have been established in the cities of Rajnandgaon and Dongargarh, contributing significantly to this endeavour.

C-Marts in Rajnandgaon district has achieved remarkable sales, amounting to a total of Rs 2 crore 14 lakh 95 thousand 764, ranking itself as the second-highest performer district in the state. This commendable feat can be attributed to the diverse range of 2,617 products available at the store, all of which are meticulously crafted by women’s groups and traditional cottage industries. The increasing popularity of these well-packaged handmade items among the general public has contributed to their noteworthy sales.

Moreover, ashrams, hostels, schools, Anganwadis, health centers, and various departments including women and child development, and other government sectors, are procuring essential supplies and food items from C-Marts. By providing a market platform and better packaging, the C-Mart plays a pivotal role in supporting women’s groups and traditional and cottage industries, thereby bolstering the rural economy. The general public also benefits from the availability of locally produced goods at the C-Mart, encompassing organic products, a wide range of spices, and various food items.

C-Mart showcases an extensive array of products, including organic scented rice, organic Kodo (millet), Ragi flour, turmeric, black rice, organic honey, Himalayan black salt, Adori Badi, Garam Masala, Moong Papad, Amla pickle, Poha, Mahua Chikki, Mahua Laddu, Mushroom Pickle, Mushroom Papad, Vedic beverage, neem toothpaste, sanitary pads, pure mango wood, pattal, spices, rice papad, pasta, coriander powder, chilli powder, soap, phenyl, bags, as well as handcrafted bed sheets, towels, handkerchiefs, and other products. Additionally, the C-Mart will also feature products manufactured in state-run Rural Industrial Parks, further diversifying its offerings.

This remarkable initiative by the state government, aimed at promoting rural economic development and establishing a strong connection between rural and urban markets, has yielded substantial positive outcomes. In line with this success, C-Marts, resembling modern showrooms, are being established in cities to provide women self-help groups, artisans, weavers, potters, and other traditional and cottage industries with market access and improved prices.