WhatsApp Launches Nationwide Initiative Bharat Yatra for Small Businesses

Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp has embarked on a nationwide journey to provide in-person training and support to small businesses across India, aiming to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the digital age.

The "WhatsApp Bharat Yatra" initiative kicked off in Delhi-NCR, with a specially branded bus visiting prominent markets, including major shopping hubs like Laxmi Nagar, Rajouri Garden, Nehru Place, Malviya Nagar, Amar Colony, and Safdarjung Enclave. The tour will cover multiple cities across the country, including Agra, Lucknow, Kanpur, Indore, Ahmedabad, Surat, Nashik, and Mysore.

Through this initiative, business owners will receive hands-on training on how to create WhatsApp Business profiles, set up product catalogues, craft ads that link directly to WhatsApp chats, and establish seamless customer engagement. The platform has partnered with the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) launched previously "WhatsApp Se Vyapaar programme" to upskill 10 million traders.

According to Ravi Garg, Director of Business Messaging at Meta India, the WhatsApp Bharat Yatra is a significant commitment from WhatsApp to help businesses unlock their full potential by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to digitally connect with customers. "By meeting businesses where they are—both physically and digitally—we aim to create a meaningful, long-lasting impact across India's entrepreneurial landscape."

Following its initial launch in Delhi-NCR, WhatsApp plans to expand its operations across major hubs in cities like Gurgaon and Noida. The initiative is expected to equip small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with the tools needed to grow and succeed.

Meta AI Integration for Enhanced Customer Interactions

Recently, WhatsApp introduced Meta Verified for better credibility and sent customized messages such as appointment reminders, birthday greetings, and sale updates. The firm has also started testing an integration of its artificial intelligence capabilities for the WhatsApp Business app, allowing businesses to streamline customer interactions with the support of AI-driven tools.

The "WhatsApp Bharat Yatra" initiative serves as a testament to the company's dedication to empowering India's small business sector.