Why in the news?

• In an effort to promote local artisans and talent, the Indian Railways will support the newly launched ‘Aabhar’ online store, and others associated with One District One Product (ODOP) and Geographical Indication (GI) initiatives.

Aabhar Online Store

• What is it?: Aabhar is an online store launched on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform aimed at showcasing and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage through products crafted by local artisans, handloom weavers, tribal producers, and women-led enterprises.
• Objective: The initiative seeks to promote local talent, encourage social inclusion, and create additional income opportunities for marginalized communities. It supports the government’s “Vocal for Local” campaign by providing market access to indigenous products and traditional crafts.
• Products: The store features gift items and hampers made under the One District One Product (ODOP) and Geographical Indication (GI) frameworks. Products are sourced from entities like the Central Cottage Industries Emporium (CCIE), Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), and various state handloom and handicraft emporiums.
• Usage: Aabhar products are used in official events, ceremonies, and functions by institutions such as the Indian Railways, which patronize this initiative to promote local crafts nationally.
• Significance: This initiative integrates local handicrafts into official procurement, aids in preserving cultural heritage, and supports rural and artisanal economies.

One District One Product (ODOP) Initiative

• What is it?: ODOP is a government initiative to identify and promote one key product from each district of India. This product represents the district’s traditional or unique craftsmanship, agricultural produce, or industry.
• Objective: To harness local skills and resources for economic development by promoting the identified product at national and international levels. ODOP aims to boost production, improve quality, and create large-scale employment in local communities.
• Implementation: ODOP promotes products with Geographical Indication (GI) tags and traditional indigenous crafts, linking them with marketing channels such as Aabhar and platforms like GeM.
• Benefits: The scheme helps in preserving indigenous knowledge, promoting sustainable livelihoods, enhancing rural entrepreneurship, and supporting MSMEs.
• Integration: The Aabhar store curates ODOP products, creating synergy between the initiative and government e-market procurement, aiding the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and “Vocal for Local” visions.