Jammu and Kashmir UT Clinches Gold at
National ODOP Awards 2023
New Delhi,– The
AatmaNirbhar Bharat Utsav 2024 witnessed the significant National One District
One Product (ODOP) Awards Ceremony, held on January 3, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam
in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The event recognized exceptional contributors to
the ODOP Initiative, showcasing India's cultural heritage, rich diversity,
artistic skills, and entrepreneurial spirit.
In a landmark achievement,
the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir was awarded the Gold in the States
(Category B) for its remarkable efforts in promoting the ODOP Initiative. Mr.
Khalid Jahangir, Managing Director of Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion
Organization (JKTPO), received the award on behalf of the UT of Jammu and
Kashmir. The Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) has been
designated as nodal agency in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for ODOP
which played a pivotal role in promoting ODOP products from the region,
showcasing a remarkable commitment to the initiative.
Additionally, the Shopian
District of Jammu and Kashmir secured the Bronze Award under category of
District Awards for Agriculture sector. This recognition highlights the
district's commendable contribution to the ODOP initiative, particularly in the
field of horticulture, with Apple as ODOP product.
The ODOP National Awards
encompassed various categories, recognizing excellence in different fields as
Districts Awards (Agriculture), Districts Awards (Non-Agriculture), States
(Category A), States (Category B) and Missions Abroad.
The efforts contributed
significantly to the recognition received at the ODOP National Awards,
particularly with Jammu and Kashmir winning the Gold in the States (Category B)
and Shopian securing the Bronze in Agriculture.
The ODOP Awards ceremony is
a testament to India's journey towards self-reliance, and the winners from
Jammu and Kashmir have exemplified excellence in promoting the ODOP Initiative.
The Union Territory, under the leadership of Hon’ble Lt. Governor Sh. Manoj
Sinha, stands as a shining example of commitment to fostering innovation and
contributing to the nation's economic and cultural growth.
The Chief Secretary of
Jammu and Kashmir, along with the Commissioner Secretary of Industries and
Commerce, has been a guiding force in propelling the One District One Product
(ODOP) initiatives in the region. Their unwavering support has played a crucial
role in the successful promotion of ODOP, showcasing a strong commitment to the
growth and prosperity of these initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
The ODOP Awards 1st edition
for 2023 witnessed an overwhelming response, with a total of 580 applications
from 535 districts, 26 States/UTs, and 19 Indian Missions Abroad. The spirited
participation reflects a nationwide dedication to fostering innovation,
encouraging competitive spirit, and enhancing public service delivery.
The Hon’ble Union Minister
of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and
Textiles, Shri Piyush Goyal, extended his congratulations to the Indian
Missions Abroad, States, and District awardees. He urged them to continue
motivating others to promote ODOP products, benefiting local weavers, artisans,
and farmers. The Minister highlighted the efforts of Indian Missions Abroad in
promoting ODOP during the G20 summit and expressed anticipation for the continued
growth of the AatmaNirbhar Bharat Utsav in the coming years.
The Chief Guest, Hon’ble
Union Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S Jaishankar, emphasized the
significant role of ODOP in representing India's diversity on the global stage.
He shared instances of presenting local ODOP products to global leaders during
India's G20 Presidency, highlighting the initiative's impact on foreign policy,
foreign economic policy, and foreign commerce policy. Dr. Jaishankar expressed
confidence that ODOP would contribute to stronger tourism in the coming years
as more people become aware of the rich art, culture, and history associated
with different regions of India.
The Jammu and Kashmir Trade
Promotion Organization (JKTPO) has been instrumental in the promotion of One
District One Product (ODOP) and remains steadfast in its commitment to further
boost these initiatives. A comprehensive activity plan, dedicated to the
promotion of ODOP products in Jammu and Kashmir, has been devised to further
boost the ODOP with focus on products of each District. The JKTPO with the
support of the Government will take further proactive steps to foster growth
and recognition of ODOP products in the region.