PM Ekta Malls: Boosting ODOP, GI & Handicrafts Across India
Syllabus: Government Schemes | Economy | Culture (GS II & III)
Source: PIB
Context:
To promote One District One Product (ODOP), Geographical Indication (GI) goods, and traditional handicrafts, the Government has approved the construction of PM Ekta Malls across States and UTs. As of now, DPRs of 27 States have been approved under the scheme.
About PM Ekta Mall
1. Objective:
To provide a dedicated space in each State/UT for showcasing and selling ODOP, GI-tagged, and handicraft products, enhancing market access and cultural visibility.
2. Budget Announcement:
First announced in Union Budget 2023–24.
3. Funding Mechanism:
Funded under Part-VI of the ‘Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) 2023-24’, with a total allocation of ₹5,000 crore.
4. Implementation Agency:
- Department of Expenditure (DoE), Ministry of Finance
- Project approvals based on recommendations from Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
Features of the Scheme
- One Ekta Mall per State, preferably in the state capital or a tourism/financial hub.
- Land provided free of cost or purchased by the State Government.
- Funds sanctioned on a first-come-first-served basis.
- Exception for Uttar Pradesh, which is allowed to construct three Ekta Malls due to its size — in Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi.
State-Wise Fund Allocation (FY 2023–24)
Total Sanctioned Amount: ₹4,795.87 crore (out of ₹5,000 crore)
| State | Location | Fund (₹ in Cr) |
|---|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | Visakhapatnam | 172 |
| Assam | Guwahati | 226 |
| Bihar | Patna | 212.69 |
| Gujarat | Surat | 202 |
| Karnataka | Mysuru | 193 |
| Madhya Pradesh | Ujjain | 284 |
| Maharashtra | Navi Mumbai | 195.13 |
| Tamil Nadu | Chennai | 223 |
| Telangana | Hyderabad | 202 |
| Uttar Pradesh | Agra, Lucknow, Varanasi | 370.25 |
| Uttarakhand | Haridwar | 136 |
| Others (16 States) | Multiple Cities | Remaining |
(Full table available on PIB portal)
Significance of PM Ekta Malls
- Market Access: Connects artisans and local producers directly to consumers.
- Cultural Promotion: Showcases India’s diverse crafts and GI products.
- Tourism Boost: Strategic locations in tourist and financial hubs enhance visibility.
- Support to ODOP & GI Schemes: Strengthens local economies and preserves traditional knowledge.
- Inclusive Development: Encourages entrepreneurship in rural and semi-urban areas.
Conclusion
The PM Ekta Mall initiative is a strategic step to boost local economies through cultural and product-based promotion. By supporting ODOP and GI items with physical retail infrastructure, the scheme aligns with India’s vision for self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat), vocal for local, and cultural preservation.
