At the National One District One Product (ODOP) Awards 2024 in New Delhi, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal announced that the Ministry is set to issue new guidelines aimed at promoting first-time exporters and targeting newer global markets. The announcement marks a renewed push to strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship under the ODOP initiative.
Addressing a gathering of government officials, industry bodies, and international representatives, Shri Goyal emphasized the transformative potential of ODOP, noting that it reflects both India’s rich cultural legacy and its global trade aspirations. He said that the Commerce Ministry will work closely with districts to identify unique products and build the export-readiness of local businesses. Improved branding, packaging, and quality assurance will be key areas of focus.
Districts as growth engines
Shri Goyal lauded the role of India’s 773 districts in driving economic growth and called India “an oasis in a turbulent world,” attributing the country’s rise to strong leadership and grassroots energy. He projected that India will become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027, underscoring the importance of state-district collaboration in this growth story.
He cited regional examples such as Ratnagiri mangoes, Wayanad coffee, and Pulwama saffron as models of export-worthy local produce. He also highlighted Bihar’s 100% ODOP product coverage across all districts and categorised the state under Category A for industrial policy integration.
Strengthening the ODOP ecosystem
The event also marked the second edition of the ODOP Awards, recognizing efforts by states, districts, and Indian missions abroad in advancing the initiative. Over 1,200 unique products from 750+ districts have been identified so far, cutting across sectors such as agriculture, handloom, handicrafts, and food processing.
To further enhance the reach of ODOP, the government has approved the setting up of PM Ekta Malls in 27 states. These will showcase ODOP and GI-tagged products to both domestic and international audiences. Additionally, ODOP Walls have been established in cities including Singapore, Milan, Vancouver, and Kuwait, helping embed Indian products in global retail.
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The government also launched a best practices compendium and the handbook for the upcoming third edition of the ODOP Awards during the event. Collaborations with IITs and NID are ongoing to provide tailored training for artisans and manufacturers.
From e-commerce integration to immersive digital experiences through AR/VR setups at Bharat Mandapam, the ODOP initiative is gaining national and international momentum. As Shri Goyal concluded, the ultimate goal is for “local to go global”—positioning ODOP as a flagship pillar in India’s journey toward Aatmanirbharta.