The ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) programme was recently launched by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, to help districts reach their full potential, foster economic and socio-cultural growth, and create employment opportunities, especially, in rural areas. The One District One Product scheme aims to turn every district in India into an export hub through the promotion of a unique product in which the district specialises. The initiative plans to accomplish this by scaling manufacturing, supporting local businesses, finding potential foreign customers and so on, thus helping to achieve the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.
Union minister Darshana Jardosh stressed on the importance of artisans and urged not to bargain for their art, which is a priceless gift to the country. Jardosh also said that on the lines of the National Handloom Day, she wants a day dedicated to handicrafts. Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India (CCIC), popularly known as the Central Cottage Industries Emporium, also opened its new outlet 'Lota Shop' at Crafts Museum at Pragati Maidan with an aim to attract Indian and foreign tourists.
At the opening of the 'Lota Shop', U.P. Singh, Secretary (Textile) talked about the facilities provided by the Museum and said that in future, he expects encouraging footfall. He said that the Museum provides facilities of lodging and also have audio visual facility for visitors. The Ministry plans to further strengthen the infrastructure of the Museum. In this regard, a Memorandum of Understanding has been prepared with ITPO to provide parking facility. He said that visitors of the Museum, who are charged a nominal entry fee, will be able to visit events and exhibitions at ITPO without paying additional fare.