ODOP Goes Global: Indian Missions Awarded for Promoting Local Products Internationally

New Delhi : India’s ambitious One District One Product (ODOP) initiative has taken a major leap onto the international stage, with Indian embassies and consulates playing a pivotal role in globalizing the country's rich local heritage. Cities such as Singapore, New York, Vancouver, Milan, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Japan now host ODOP Walls, showcasing India’s unique district-based offerings.

At the ODOP Awards 2024 ceremony held in New Delhi on Monday, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal honored not only Indian districts for their signature products but also recognized Indian missions abroad for their exceptional efforts in promoting ODOP globally.

The Indian High Commission in Singapore, along with the Consulates General in New York and Vancouver, were awarded the Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals respectively, under the Overseas Indian Mission category of the ODOP National Awards.

Minister Goyal, in his address, emphasized India’s unmatched diversity of products and crafts, stating,

“From Wayanad’s coffee to Ratnagiri’s mangoes and Pulwama’s saffron, our products represent India’s incredible diversity and potential to go global. Each district carries a unique heritage that deserves the world’s attention.”

He further asserted that ODOP is a unique initiative unmatched globally, enabling India to take its local treasures to international markets.

“Local is now becoming global,” he said, calling the program a symbol of India’s cultural and entrepreneurial resurgence.

Creative Diplomacy and International Impact
According to MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, over 15 Indian missions abroad have actively participated in ODOP promotional activities, including roadshows, exhibitions, and gifting campaigns. In a social media post on platform ‘X’, Jaiswal congratulated the awarded missions and highlighted their contribution in making ODOP a global identity.

The statement further noted that ODOP products are now available at major retail outlets in Singapore, such as Mustafa Centre and Centrepoint Mall, providing international consumers direct access to India’s traditional and locally sourced products.

Minister Goyal also praised the missions for using creative campaigns, e-commerce platforms, and targeted promotions to position ODOP as a credible and recognized global brand.

The ODOP initiative, launched with the aim of promoting district-specific products for economic growth, has now evolved into a soft-power tool for India’s global outreach, blending diplomacy with grassroots development.

As ODOP expands globally, it is expected to boost exports, empower local artisans and producers, and foster a sense of pride and identity at both regional and national levels.