About Us
KADAM is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering rural communities by enhancing traditional handicraft skills and creating sustainable livelihoods. Operating across six states, KADAM has positively impacted over 10,000 artisans in its 18-year journey. Focusing on natural fibers, the organization preserves ancient craftsmanship while offering a sustainable alternative to rural migration. Through KADAM HAAT, artisans are connected to markets, ensuring a steady income and the continued growth of their handcrafted products for homes, kitchens, and lifestyle needs.
We are currently working in Six states—West Bengal, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Kashmir and Tamil Nadu—KADAM is a non-profit enterprise committed to uplifting communities. Over the past 18 years, KADAM has educated more than 5200 artisans, enabling them to create exquisite handcrafted items.
The organization’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its collaboration with craftsmen working with natural fibers like Sabai Grass, Bamboo, Moonj, Sikki, Sitalpati and other grasses. KADAM’s product range includes a diverse selection of items such as baskets, mats, trays, runners, and tableware for the home and kitchen. Additionally, the organization extends its offerings to lifestyle items like bags, all crafted with precision and care by skilled artisans. Through these initiatives, KADAM strives to not only preserve traditional craftsmanship but also provide a viable alternative to the migration of the unskilled rural workforce to urban areas.
KADAM facilitates the marketing of its handcrafted products through KADAM HAAT. This initiative is designed to provide a sustainable source of income for artisans following their training. Through KADAM HAAT, the organization connects these skilled craftspeople with markets, enabling them to showcase and sell their products.
From the Co-Founder’s Desk
Leadership
Payal Nath
Co-Founded Kadam and Kadam Haat
Payal Nath co-founded Kadam and Kadam Haat and has dedicated her life to upskilling artisans. Started her career as a young shoe designer, Payal has worked with leading global brands and brings her depth of design experience. Payal was recently among 75 women honoured as Women Transforming India by the NITI Aayog and Iconic World Leader by the World Economic Forum amongst others.
Amitava Bose
President
Mr Amitava Bose is the current President of KADAM and an Independent Director of KADAM HAAT BASKETRY BARN PVT. LTD. He joined KADAM in April 2021. He comes with more than 25 years of experience in Senior Management positions in various multinational corporations. He has a bachelor’s degree in physics from Presidency College, Calcutta and Electric Engineering from Florida Institute of Technology, USA. He also has an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta.
Samiran Banik
Lead Design Advisor, KADAM
Samiran Banik, a visionary architect and graduate of The Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (R.I.A.I), has over 35 years of experience in transformative design. Renowned for his national and international projects, he now serves as Lead Design Advisor at Kadam, blending architecture and art into timeless creations.