NITI Aayog’s ‘Vocal for Local’ Initiative: Empowering Grassroots Entrepreneurship

NITI Aayog launched the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative under its Aspirational Blocks Programme on March 13, 2024. This initiative aims to bolster local economies and promote grassroots entrepreneurship, ultimately fostering self-reliance and sustainable growth.

Unveiling of Aakanksha Logo

• Prof. Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog, unveiled the logo for ‘Aakanksha’ under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.
• The initiative aims to consolidate indigenous local products from 500 Aspirational Blocks under the brand ‘Aakanksha’.

Establishment of GeM Window for Aspirational Blocks Programme

• A dedicated window for Aspirational Blocks Programme under the brand name ‘Aakanksha’ on the GeM portal has been created to promote local products.
• Partners will offer technical and operational support for e-commerce onboarding, linkages establishment, financial/digital literacy, certification, and skill enhancement.

Driving Economic Empowerment and Self-sufficiency

• The ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative aims to create a conducive ecosystem for local businesses, fostering economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.
• NITI Aayog remains committed to realizing the full potential of every Aspirational Block, driving inclusive growth and prosperity through collective action.