Has Madhya Pradesh Secured a Silver Medal for 'One District-One Product' Scheme?

Bhopal/New Delhi, July 15 (NationPress) Madhya Pradesh has earned a silver medal in recognition of its outstanding execution of the 'One District One Product' (ODOP) initiative. This award highlights the state's commitment to enhancing local product branding, as confirmed by government officials.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal presented the accolade during a ceremony at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Ruhi Khan, the Deputy Secretary of the Industry, Commerce, and Investment Promotion department of the Madhya Pradesh government, accepted the award.

The state government stated, "This recognition underscores the effective implementation of the ODOP scheme, which has significantly contributed to branding local products, creating employment opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship in both rural and urban areas."

Numerous ODOP products have achieved Geographical Indication (GI) tags, resulting in increased global demand.

This progress has enhanced the livelihoods of artisans and producers, particularly in the sectors of handicrafts, agriculture, and food processing.

The ODOP scheme in Madhya Pradesh features products chosen for their geographical, biological, natural, or production-specific uniqueness.

The initiative is active across all districts, encompassing a diverse array of products, including green vegetables, millets, handicrafts, handlooms, and local tools.

Local artisans and their products receive dedicated support within the state.

Currently, 19 products from various districts have secured GI tags, such as Chanderi Saree, Bagh Print, Nagpur Orange, Ratlami Sev, Kadaknath Chicken, Chinor Rice, Boutique Print, Stone Craft, Leather Toys, Bell Metal Ware, and Maheshwari Saree.

Products from districts like quality bananas from Burhanpur, aromatic basmati rice from Raisen, and Chinor rice from Balaghat are now gaining recognition both nationally and internationally.

These products not only elevate the state's identity but also drive economic growth, job creation, and export potential, as noted by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.

The ODOP initiative has evolved into a community-driven movement, actively involving artisans, women’s self-help groups, farmer producer organizations, startups, and local entrepreneurs, according to the state government.

The government has implemented various strategies to transform these local products into global commodities, including product-based training, branding, packaging enhancements, digitization, and logistical support for exports.

"Efforts are ongoing to improve branding, quality, and packaging, ensuring international recognition for these premium products. The ODOP initiative is also boosting tourism through local specialties," the state government added.