The One District One Product Scheme has emerged as one of Uttar Pradesh’s flagship initiatives, helping revive traditional industries, strengthen local businesses and position the state as a major manufacturing and export hub. Since its launch in 2018, the programme has empowered artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses by promoting one unique product from each district.
The initiative focuses on preserving traditional crafts while connecting them with national and international markets through financial assistance, branding, skill development and modern marketing support.
One District One Product Scheme Creates Employment Opportunities
According to official figures, the One District One Product Scheme has trained more than 1.46 lakh artisans over the past nine years and directly benefited over 20,000 entrepreneurs. The initiative has also generated employment opportunities for more than 3.16 lakh people across Uttar Pradesh.
The programme provides free toolkits, skill training, easier access to credit, product design support and market linkages, enabling artisans and small manufacturers to expand their businesses and improve their incomes.
Exports Reach Record High Under the One District One Product Scheme
The Uttar Pradesh government says the state has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from being historically classified as a “BIMARU” state into one of India’s fastest-growing manufacturing and export centres.
According to government data, exports from Uttar Pradesh have increased from Rs 86,000 crore in 2017-18 to a record Rs 1.84 lakh crore. Nearly 50% of these exports now consist of products promoted under the One District One Product Scheme along with handicrafts, highlighting the programme’s growing contribution to the state’s economy.
During the 2026-27 Budget session, the state government said the initiative has evolved beyond product branding and has become a key driver of economic and social development for artisans and small businesses.
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District Products Gain National and Global Recognition
Each district under the scheme is known for its signature product, helping preserve traditional craftsmanship while creating new business opportunities.
Popular products include Agra’s leather and marble goods, Aligarh’s locks, Azamgarh’s black pottery, Ayodhya’s jaggery, Kannauj’s perfumes, Varanasi’s silk sarees, Moradabad’s metal handicrafts and Saharanpur’s wooden furniture.
Through better branding, improved packaging, trade fairs, exhibitions and e-commerce platforms, the One District One Product Scheme has enabled artisans from villages and small towns to reach customers across India and international markets.
GI Tags Strengthen Global Identity
The state government has also focused on protecting the uniqueness of local products through Geographical Indication (GI) certification.
So far, 79 products from Uttar Pradesh have received GI tags, strengthening their recognition in domestic and global markets. To further promote GI-certified products, the government has increased financial support from Rs 145 crore to Rs 200 crore.
Industry representatives say improved branding, quality enhancement and export promotion have significantly increased demand for products such as Moradabad metal crafts, Bhadohi carpets, Kannauj perfumes, Varanasi silk sarees and Aligarh locks.
One District One Product Scheme Empowers Artisans
Artisans and entrepreneurs associated with the programme report significant improvements in business opportunities and income.
Manufacturers have benefited from easier access to finance, modern machinery, raw materials, digital marketplaces and international exhibitions. Many small businesses that once served only local markets are now selling their products across India and overseas.
With continued investment in traditional industries and stronger market access, the One District One Product Scheme is playing a vital role in preserving Uttar Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage, creating employment opportunities and strengthening the state’s position as one of India’s leading manufacturing and export hubs.
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