Hindustan Zinc Limited has expanded its rural women-led microenterprise brand DAICHI into organised retail and quick commerce channels, marking a major step in connecting grassroots producers with urban consumers. The brand’s products are now available through Modern Bazaar stores across Delhi NCR and on Blinkit, enabling wider market access for goods crafted by rural women entrepreneurs from Rajasthan.
DAICHI, positioned as “The Best from Rural India,” offers a wide portfolio of fast-moving consumer goods including pickles, honey, spices, pulses, edible oils, ghee, and traditional snacks. Each product is handmade and managed by women operating within community-based microenterprises, reflecting a blend of traditional knowledge and quality-focused production.
This retail expansion represents a significant milestone for the company’s Sakhi and Sakhi Microenterprise initiatives, which aim to build sustainable livelihoods for women in rural communities. More than 26,800 women have been engaged through self-help groups, village organisations, federations, and small enterprises, creating a strong foundation for economic participation and local leadership.
The microenterprise programme has evolved steadily over the years. From five stitching units involving 81 women and fewer than 100 products in its early phase, it has grown into a network of 14 production units supporting over 400 women and more than 300 products across food and textile categories. In the financial year 2025–26, the initiative generated revenue of ₹2.6 crore, reflecting both scale and market acceptance.
In addition to physical retail, DAICHI has strengthened its digital presence through its own e-commerce platform and leading online marketplaces. This omnichannel strategy aligns with rising consumer demand for convenience and faster delivery, while also expanding opportunities for rural producers to reach new customer segments.
The programme has received national recognition for its impact on women’s empowerment and rural entrepreneurship, earning accolades from leading industry and development platforms. Participation in major exhibitions and cultural events has further enhanced brand visibility and consumer engagement.
Hindustan Zinc continues to lead technological transformation in the metals and mining sector. The company is currently collaborating with over 20 technology startups on more than 50 projects through its innovation platform, V Spark Deeptech Ventures. These initiatives span production optimization, cost efficiency, ESG leadership, and enhanced safety practices.
The company has integrated technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) into its operations. Recent advancements include AI-powered surveillance systems that have reduced manual intervention by nearly 50% and robotic automation in high-temperature smelting processes, improving precision and consistency.
Looking ahead, Hindustan Zinc plans to deploy LiDAR-enabled drone-based stope scanning to further enhance underground mapping accuracy and optimize extraction planning. Through sustained investment in innovation and digital transformation, Hindustan Zinc is redefining operational excellence in mining while setting new benchmarks for safety, sustainability, and technological leadership in the industry.
