From local handicrafts to GI-tagged goods - UP govt initiatives to boost artisans, ODOP exports

The economic landscape of Uttar Pradesh is witnessing a significant shift as the state moves beyond its traditional agrarian identity to position itself as a hub for handcrafted and heritage-based industries.

Two key initiatives: One District One Product (ODOP) and Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojana are driving this transformation by providing financial assistance, skill development, modern tools and global branding opportunities to traditional artisans.

The ODOP scheme has helped give international recognition to local products by identifying a unique speciality for each of the state’s 75 districts. This approach has strengthened branding and increased demand for traditional goods in global markets.

The state now leads India with 77 products receiving the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which protects and promotes heritage crafts. Well-known products such as Lucknow Chikankari, Moradabad Brassware and Kannauj Perfume (Attar) are among those benefiting from this recognition.

The initiative has also contributed to a rise in exports. According to official data, exports from the state increased from Rs 88,967 crore in 2017 to about Rs 1.71 lakh crore by 2024.

Building on the success of ODOP, the state government has also launched the One District One Cuisine (ODOC) initiative to promote traditional food items such as Agra Petha and Mathura Peda at the global level.

Traditional workers such as carpenters, potters, cobblers and tailors play a key role in the rural economy. Through the Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojana, the state government has focused on improving their skills and working conditions.

More than 1.25 lakh artisans have received modern toolkits under the scheme, enabling them to shift from manual methods to more efficient production. Beneficiaries are also provided free six-day training programmes aimed at improving their skills and helping them meet modern market demands.

Access to capital remains a major challenge for small entrepreneurs. To address this, the ODOP Margin Money Scheme offers financial support to small businesses linked with ODOP products.

Projects worth more than Rs 6,000 crore have been approved under the scheme. Beneficiaries receive subsidies ranging from 10% to 25% of the project cost, with a maximum benefit of up to Rs 20 lakh. Special provisions allow up to 95% financing for entrepreneurs from SC, ST, OBC and women categories to encourage inclusive growth.

To strengthen the sector further, the state is investing in infrastructure such as Common Facility Centers (CFCs). A total of 29 centres have been sanctioned to provide shared access to advanced machinery, design laboratories and packaging facilities.

In addition, “Unity Malls” proposed in Agra, Varanasi and Lucknow will serve as dedicated hubs to showcase and sell ODOP and GI-tagged products.

Officials said that the initiatives are helping traditional industries expand from local workshops to international markets. Products crafted in districts like Moradabad are now reaching global buyers and even being used as diplomatic gifts.