The Yogi Adityanath administration’s One District One Product (ODOP) initiative has significantly altered the economic landscape of Uttar Pradesh, propelling it from the classification of a “BIMARU” state to a prominent manufacturing and export centre. This transformation has not only revived traditional industries but has also reportedly led to the creation of over 3 lakh jobs.

Initiated in 2018, the ODOP scheme aims to highlight and promote a unique product from each district, providing artisans and entrepreneurs with essential resources such as skill training, financial support, and marketing assistance. The overarching goal is to rejuvenate traditional crafts while enabling small-scale producers to compete effectively in both national and international markets.

According to government sources, Uttar Pradesh has transitioned from being previously perceived as economically stagnant to becoming a significant exporter, with products that were once limited to local clientele now reaching broader national and international audiences.

Remarkable Growth in Employment and Exports

Official statistics indicate that more than 1.46 lakh artisans have gained training through the ODOP scheme in the subsequent years, with a positive impact on over 20,000 entrepreneurs. The initiative has reportedly created employment opportunities for around 3.16 lakh individuals across various sectors.

During the Budget session for 2026-27, Uttar Pradesh’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Minister Rakesh Sachan presented the assembly with insights on how ODOP has evolved from simple product branding to a vital programme focused on the socio-economic revival of artisans across the state.

Data from the government shows a significant increase in export value, rising from Rs 86,000 crore in the fiscal year 2017-18 to an unprecedented Rs 1.84 lakh crore, approximately half of which is attributed to ODOP and handicraft products. This uptick reflects enhanced market accessibility for local artisans.

Unique Products and Enhanced Market Access

Each district under the ODOP scheme is associated with its distinctive product. For example, Agra is known for leather and marble goods, Aligarh is home to locks, whilst Azamgarh is recognised for its black pottery. Other notable products include Ayodhya’s jaggery, Kannauj’s perfumes, and Varanasi’s silk sarees, among others.

Officials have noted that the ODOP initiative has facilitated artisans from both rural and small urban areas in tapping into larger markets. Through improved packaging, branding strategies, and opportunities for participation in exhibitions, trade fairs, and e-commerce platforms, artisans have garnered enhanced visibility.

The state has reportedly allocated an increased budget, from Rs 145 crore to Rs 200 crore, for promoting products with Geographical Indication (GI) tags, further strengthening their positioning in global markets.

Artisans Share Positive Outcomes of ODOP

Prominent figures in the artisanal community, such as Padma Shri awardee Dilshad Hussain from Moradabad, attest to the positive impact of the ODOP scheme, which has expanded marketing outreach for the brass industry. Marketing support, branding, and exhibition participation have contributed to rising international demand for these products.

In Amroha, furniture artisan Jitendra Saini observed that including metal and wooden handicrafts within the ODOP framework has doubled the earning potential for many artisans, providing better access to financing for machinery and materials.

Entrepreneur Amit Goyal mentioned that local wooden crafts are now available across both domestic and international markets via online platforms and exhibitions, evidencing the scheme’s effectiveness in broadening market access.

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