Ektha

Ensures fair living wage for producers

Discloses the community being impacted

Focusses on women producers

Created using handcrafted methods

Reduces/Reuses/
Recycles resources

Avoids use of chemicals or toxic materials

Uses portion of proceeds to give back to the community

Ektha is a producer-owned company that empowers over 350 artisans—primarily women—across Kirugavalu and Hulivana in Karnataka’s Mandya district. Rooted in a community-led model, Ektha creates meaningful livelihood opportunities by engaging artisans in diverse skill-based activities that uphold tradition while ensuring economic independence. Each product is a reflection of collective effort, crafted with care and rooted in purpose. By placing ownership in the hands of its makers, Ektha fosters self-reliance, dignity, and long-term sustainability. This is more than craft—it’s a movement toward inclusive growth, where women lead the way in shaping stronger, more resilient communities.

Purpose

Ektha is driven by a powerful purpose—to empower rural women by creating sustainable income opportunities through skill-based livelihoods like apparel stitching. With a strong belief in inclusive development, Ektha envisions a future where women in underserved regions are not just participants in the economy but leaders of change within their communities. By offering hands-on training, consistent work, and a supportive ecosystem, Ektha helps women gain financial independence, confidence, and dignity. The mission is clear: to transform lives through meaningful employment, preserve traditional skills, and build self-reliant communities from the grassroots up. Ektha’s vision is a world where every woman, no matter where she lives, has the tools, skills, and support to shape her own future and thrive.

People

Ektha’s social impact is profound, transforming the lives of women primarily from SC/ST communities who once faced limited access to income-generating opportunities. Before joining the unit, many lacked the skills and steady employment needed to support themselves and their families. Through comprehensive training and ongoing support, these women have developed valuable skills in apparel stitching, enabling them to earn sustainable incomes. This empowerment has not only improved their financial stability but also elevated their overall quality of life. By fostering economic independence, Ektha helps break cycles of poverty and builds stronger, more resilient communities where women can thrive with dignity and confidence.

Planet

Ektha is committed to environmentally responsible practices throughout its production process. By focusing on apparel stitching and skill development rather than resource-intensive manufacturing, the company minimizes its ecological footprint. The use of locally sourced materials and sustainable fabrics further supports eco-friendly production. Additionally, Ektha promotes slow fashion principles by encouraging quality craftsmanship and durable products, reducing waste and the need for frequent replacements. Through these efforts, Ektha not only empowers women economically but also contributes to a more sustainable and mindful textile industry.