February 20, 2026 2:00 PM

Azamgarh’s black pottery revived through ODOP, artisans credit double-engine govt

Under the various self-employment schemes being implemented by the double-engine government at the Centre and in Uttar Pradesh, Nizamabad in Azamgarh district is carving out a distinct identity through the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, with its famed black pottery gaining recognition both nationally and internationally. Once on the verge of extinction, the traditional craft of black pottery has witnessed a revival over the past few years. In 2015, the craft received the Geographic...

October 27, 2025 1:47 PM

PM Modi shares Finance Minister Sitharaman’s article on strengthening food processing for national security

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday shared an article by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s domestic food processing capacity, describing it as vital for national security, rural prosperity, and economic resilience. Responding to a post by the Finance Minister’s office on X, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) wrote, “Union Finance Minister Smt. @nsitharaman highlights that strengthening domestic food processing capa...

July 14, 2025 10:29 PM

Centre to issue new guidelines to promote first-time exporters: Piyush Goyal

The government will soon issue new guidelines on how to promote new markets, new products, and new exporters, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday. He added that the Ministry and districts can work together to promote One District One Product (ODOP) items in newer markets and support first-time exporters. He said the Commerce Ministry will collaborate with districts to help first-time exporters reach new markets. Goyal highlighted that 773 districts across various states have contribu...

September 16, 2024 3:25 PM

Punjab Tourism and ODOP spotlighted at Indian Embassy in Bahrain

The Indian Embassy in Bahrain unveiled new displays showcasing Punjab's tourism attractions and One District One Product (ODOP) scheme in a vibrant ceremony this week. The event marks Punjab as the sixth state to be featured in the Embassy's ongoing 'focus state-union territory' initiative. Colorful walls in the Consular hall now highlight Punjab's rich cultural heritage and diverse products, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's touristic appeal and unique ODOP offerings. This month-lon...

September 16, 2024 5:55 PM

Varanasi’s wooden toy industry thrives with over Rs 40 crore annual turnover, Padma Shri awardee highlights significance

Varanasi's ancient wooden toy industry, once on the brink of collapse, is now witnessing a remarkable revival with an annual turnover of around Rs 45 crore. This thriving industry is not only providing employment opportunities for thousands of artisans, but also enriching homes worldwide with its exquisitely crafted toys and decorative items. Padma Shri awardee Godavari Singh, a renowned craftsman, highlighted the deep historical roots of the wooden toy industry in Varanasi, tracing its origins...