Northeast Desk, 4th Jan: Meghalaya has achieved the prestigious second runner-up position at the One District One Product (ODOP) Awards for 2023. The accolade, presented in New Delhi by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, acknowledges Meghalaya’s steadfast commitment to the ODOP initiative—an integral part of the central government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, announcing the achievement, emphasized Meghalaya’s strategic initiatives. These include mission mode programs, the creation of unique brands, Geographic Indication (GI) tagging, and effective marketing strategies. These efforts have empowered local products to compete globally, fostering balanced regional development.
Commissioner and Secretary Vijay Kumar D received the award on behalf of Meghalaya, expressing that it serves as motivation for farmers and skilled artisans. The recognition highlights Meghalaya’s dedication to building agri-value chains, ensuring quality assurance, and fostering global collaborations.
The state government has actively supported the ODOP scheme through awareness campaigns, improving production and sales infrastructure, specific registration processes, and the integration of new technologies. Meghalaya’s successful export of Khasi Mandarin to Dubai showcases its ability to establish valuable market connections.
This honor underscores Meghalaya’s dedication to innovation, quality, and collaboration, positioning its unique products for domestic and international markets. The state’s commitment contributes significantly to the overarching goal of self-reliance in India.