New Delhi, July 16, 2025 – Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced on Monday that the government will soon release guidelines to promote new markets, products, and first-time exporters, with a focus on expanding the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative. Speaking at an event, Goyal emphasized collaboration between the Commerce Ministry and India’s 773 districts to elevate local products like Wayanad’s coffee, Ratnagiri mangoes, and Pulwama’s saffron to global markets, reinforcing India’s position as the world’s fastest-growing large economy.
ODOP: A Unique Initiative for Global Reach
Goyal highlighted the ODOP initiative as a cornerstone of India’s export strategy, describing it as a unique model unparalleled globally. “Each of India’s 773 districts brings a distinct legacy, offering diverse products that can take India’s name to the world,” he said, citing examples like Wayanad’s coffee, Ratnagiri’s Alphonso mangoes, and Pulwama’s saffron. He noted that in some cases, districts may promote two products under ODOP to reflect their rich heritage.
The minister underscored the initiative’s success, particularly in Bihar, where all 38 districts have achieved 100% product coverage under ODOP. “Bihar has set a benchmark, earning Category A status for integrating all products into the state’s economic framework and industrial policy,” Goyal said. He added that 64 of the 87 ODOP products nationwide are covered under the Industrial Investment Promotion Policy, enabling structured support for local industries.
New Guidelines to Empower Exporters
Goyal announced that the Commerce Ministry will partner with districts to support first-time exporters and tap newer markets. “We are committed to helping local products go global,” he said, urging stakeholders to make ODOP a driving force for district-level prosperity. The forthcoming guidelines will outline strategies to identify new markets, promote innovative products, and provide handholding for novice exporters, aligning with India’s ambition to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027.
“India is an oasis in a tumultuous world, growing faster than any other large economy,” Goyal remarked, attributing this to the country’s diverse product offerings and robust economic policies. He emphasized the need for collective action to leverage ODOP’s potential, ensuring that local legacies translate into global success.
Expert Insights and Context
The ODOP initiative, launched to promote unique district-level products, has gained traction as a tool for economic empowerment and export growth. “The focus on first-time exporters and new markets is a strategic move to diversify India’s export basket, which is critical for sustaining economic momentum,” said Dr. Priya Sharma, an economist at the Delhi-based Trade Policy Research Centre. She noted that products like saffron and mangoes have strong international demand, and ODOP’s structured approach could boost their visibility.
Bihar’s success in ODOP implementation has drawn praise, with experts crediting the state’s proactive policies. “Bihar’s 100% coverage reflects strong governance and alignment with national goals,” said Anil Kumar, a policy analyst in Patna. The state’s emphasis on ODOP is expected to inspire others to streamline their industrial frameworks.
Implications and Next Steps
The upcoming guidelines signal the government’s intent to scale up ODOP’s impact, fostering inclusive growth by empowering small producers and exporters. The focus on first-time exporters could democratize access to global markets, particularly for rural and semi-urban entrepreneurs. However, challenges like infrastructure gaps and market access barriers will need to be addressed to ensure success.
As the Commerce Ministry prepares to roll out these guidelines, stakeholders anticipate increased collaboration between districts and export promotion councils. Goyal’s call to make ODOP a “driving force of prosperity” sets the stage for a renewed push towards globalizing India’s local products, with Bihar’s model likely to guide other states. The initiative’s success will hinge on effective implementation and sustained support for India’s diverse districts.