Founder’s Note
In the serene Nilgiri Hills, the Toda tribe’s traditions have been passed down for generations, with embroidery and tourism forming the cultural backbone of the community. Among them, Aswini Sin (22) and Abitha Sin (23) grew up steeped in this heritage. Yet, the two young women dreamt of a life that extended beyond the confines of their tranquil village. College broadened their horizons, igniting aspirations of creating something uniquely their own. “We often talked about experiencing and creating something new,” Aswini fondly recalls.
The arrival of the DIGI Centre in their village marked a turning point in their lives. The centre offered digital training and resources that opened new avenues for exploration. Aswini and Abitha immersed themselves in learning, watching videos on small business ideas, from artisanal crafts to innovative food stalls. Inspired by these stories, they approached the DIGI team for guidance, which led to the creation of “DIGI-TEA.”
Situated next to the DIGI Centre, DIGI-TEA became a cosy tea stall blending the warmth of Toda culture with modern conveniences like digital payments. The DIGI team provided essential support, helping the duo navigate banking, set up QR codes, and manage digital payment systems. With newfound digital literacy, Aswini and Abitha began envisioning their business’s online presence, planning an Instagram account to showcase their journey, attract tourists, and share the legacy of their Toda roots. Their journey took a leap forward when DIGI invited them to an exhibition in Chennai. The experience introduced them to new cultures and broadened their entrepreneurial vision. Selling Ooty’s spices, coffee, and chocolates, they honed skills in sales and marketing, gaining confidence to expand their ventures further. Today, DIGI-TEA stands as more than a tea stall; it symbolises empowerment and innovation, inspiring young Toda women to embrace their heritage while reaching for modern opportunities.
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