Maharashtra's Shabari Naturals Wins G-Mark Global Design Award for Tribal-Inspired Packaging

Shabari Naturals, a social enterprise and Maharashtra government initiative that promotes products associated with tribal communities and forest gatherers, has received the 'G-Mark - Global Design Award'. Officials stated that the recognition was awarded for its packaging, which is inspired by traditional art forms.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the global honour during his monthly radio broadcast, 'Mann Ki Baat', on Sunday, lauding the recognition for the social enterprise. The initiative is managed by the Nashik-headquartered Shabari Tribal Finance and Development Corporation (STFDC).

The brand's packaging incorporates traditional art forms such as Warli, Gond, and Chitrakathi art, alongside various legends of tribal culture. According to officials, the design provides a premium look to the products while communicating the richness and sustainability of tribal life to global consumers.

The award is presented by the Japan Institute of Design Promotion and will be officially given in Tokyo on November 4. STFDC Managing Director Leena Bansod will receive the award on behalf of the state government.

Following this global recognition, the brand acquires the official right to display the G-Mark logo across its packaging. Officials noted that the sticker functions as an international trust seal for premium quality and design aesthetics.

Shabari Naturals operates to empower tribal communities by marketing their natural goods. Its product portfolio includes organic food items such as wild honey, unpolished rice, pulses, millets, spices, and handmade traditional artefacts.

The international jury of the Good Design Award selected the design based on its cultural value, sustainability, and innovative presentation. Prior to this international honour, the design had also received the India Design Mark award.

Maharashtra Tribal Development Minister Dr Ashok Uike stated that the award represents an honour for tribal culture, as well as the livelihood and hard work of the tribal community. He added that the recognition will provide a significant boost to sustainable development and employment opportunities for the community.

Leena Bansod remarked that winning a global design award for the packaging is a matter of pride for Shabari Naturals. She noted that the recognition increases their responsibility and that the real recipients of the award are the tribal communities from whom the inspiration originates.

"The international recognition of Shabari Naturals highlights the immense commercial and cultural value embedded in traditional Indian art forms when paired with structured institutional support. By integrating indigenous Warli, Gond, and Chitrakathi art into product packaging, the initiative has successfully created a bridge between rural forest gatherers and global markets. This development demonstrates how thoughtful design and institutional backing can enhance product positioning, drive brand trust, and create sustainable economic opportunities for grassroots communities." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes