Our Approach

Avani seeks to establish an indelible shift in the socio-economic fabric of Kumaoni villages. The holistic approach to employment opportunities ensures sustainable livelihoods for women and families, resilient communities and vibrant ecosystems. 

At Avani, the process of production is as important as the product itself. Taking a triple bottom line approach – addressing People, Planet and Prosperity. Avani links traditional knowledge and timeless handcrafting to the urbane, contemporary needs and mainstream markets – such that there is an awareness and appreciation towards fair trade, environmental conservation in this fragile Himalayan landscape, gender empowerment and preservation of traditional knowledge. It puts various naturally available resources to use in innovative ways in collaboration with local people. 

All the projects – be it handspun textiles, production of natural dyes, bio energy generated from pine-needles or the regeneration of chal-khals (local water harvesting structures) – are inspired by and tailored to the unique topography, resources and culture of this Kumaoni region.