It will not be an exaggeration if we say that India's economy is run by its KIRANA shop owners. Money circulation and liquidity-flow in the system largely depends on them. They run their homes and along with that lights up our daily existence.

On one hand, we need the Kirana Shops to thrive and prosper for a vibrant India. On the other, we have to make these shops productive. Today there are too many shops with too little productivity. With challenges, comes opportunity. And here comes the importance of technology. At a micro level we have to solve some basic issues-

1) Marginal Traders (Read Chowmin/ Momo sellers) need the legal right to operate - Technology already exists, and the process can be accelerated with an APP (preferably in local language) connecting the authority & the trader on ground. Legal rights may result in more accountability, and may bring in quality improvement.

2) Kirana shop owners need reliable and timely credit facility - linking Aadhaar with bank account is the first step to find out credit worthiness of an individual / group. Technology can ensure an improved monitoring system. Assured liquidity along with technical know-how of modern trading will reduce the risk of default substantially. It’s possible to design a robust system in 5 years with more data feeding it. Shop cash flow data can be directly mapped to tap the next investment opportunity.

3) Productivity - In Indian conditions, increasing productivity and bettering service quality is a challenge. But high-quality data piggyback systems from action point to local business advisory body and vice versa, can reduce the time gap for implementation. APP in the local language can make it faster.

4) Production & Distribution – We need good & reliable road connectivity, 24/7 electricity supply, drinking water supply and so on.

Kirana shop owners need training on storage upgradation, capacity utilization, quality assurance, sales prediction modeling etc.

5) Usage of Technology in Retailing - Usage of QR codes for payment or using UPI integrated system for payment will facilitate the whole process.

6) Simplified GST procedure - Haat, Melas & Mandi's can only thrive with simplified GST procedure. Interface between the retailer and authority must be available with a TAP on button. 

7) Legal Rights for employees in unorganized retail - Workers / employees in unorganized retail are the most vulnerable lot. They need legal rights / training. Designing the right pension fund and health care insurance scheme for workers is the need of the hour.

8) Accounting Software - Kirana shop owners need tailor made but easy to understand accounting APP. It's possible to design a mother copy and then customize that to cater different needs.

Successful entrepreneurs / employees will need lifelong learning in basic finance and quality control. Usage of technology will facilitate both.