Shillong, January 03 : In a major triumph for the state’s dedication to empowering local enterprises, Meghalaya soared to the coveted second runners-up position at the prestigious ODOP Awards 2023. The award, presented at the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Utsav and National ODOP Awards ceremony in New Delhi, recognizes Meghalaya’s unwavering commitment to the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar inaugurated the ceremony, which celebrates the outstanding contributions of states and Union Territories towards nurturing self-reliance through the ODOP program.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma expressed jubilation, stating, “This award is a badge of honor for our farmers and artisans, whose unique products are now shining on the national and international stage. Our success stems from strategic initiatives, mission-mode programs, and robust marketing strategies.”
Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary, received the award on behalf of the state government. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of the people of Meghalaya,” he declared. “We are committed to building a self-reliant India by showcasing our state’s unique offerings. This award motivates us to foster innovation, quality assurance, and global collaborations for sustainable growth across sectors.”
Meghalaya’s dedication to the ODOP program is evident in its comprehensive initiatives. The government actively raises awareness about ODOP schemes, implements stringent quality standards, improves production and sales infrastructure, and supports unique branding and technology adoption. They actively conduct gap analyses, organize exposure visits, and facilitate capacity-building workshops for artisans and entrepreneurs.
This dedication has already borne fruit, with Meghalaya successfully exporting Khasi Mandarin to Dubai, forging valuable international market connections.
