J&K strikes gold again at national ODOP awards 2024

New Delhi, July 15: In a remarkable achievement, Jammu and Kashmir has once again clinched the gold medal in the States (Category B) at the National One District One Product (ODOP) Awards 2024, held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.This marks the second consecutive year the Union Territory has received the coveted distinction, reaffirming its growing stature in promoting district-based entrepreneurship and traditional craftsmanship. According to a statement issued here, the awards ceremony celebrated India’s vibrant cultural heritage, rich diversity, and grassroots innovation. This year’s edition received an overwhelming response with 641 applications from 587 districts, 31 States and Union Territories and 23 Indian Missions Abroad.The award was received on behalf of the Jammu and Kashmir Government by Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, and Sudershan Kumar, Managing Director, Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO). As the nodal agency for the ODOP initiative in the UT, JKTPO has played a pivotal role in driving local economic growth and showcasing indigenous products. Adding to the laurels, Pulwama district was conferred the Silver Medal in Category A (Agriculture), while Ganderbal district secured the Silver Medal in Category B (Non-Agriculture). Dr Basharat Qayoom, Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama, and Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, accepted the awards on behalf of their respective districts.The ODOP National Awards recognised excellence across multiple categories, including States and UTs, Districts (Agriculture and Non-Agriculture) and Indian Missions Abroad. Jammu and Kashmir’s consistent performance underlines its successful model of promoting local artisans, weavers, farmers, and entrepreneurs through focused policy and institutional support. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary were credited for their visionary leadership, which has significantly contributed to the Union Territory’s success in advancing the ODOP movement. Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, lauded the winners and encouraged continued efforts to promote indigenous products and empower rural and traditional economies. Going forward, the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation plans to further intensify the promotion of ODOP products from each district, enhancing market access, visibility and economic empowerment across the region.