The Indian Government has approved the establishment of PM Ekta Malls in 27 states to promote local craftsmanship and products.
Encompassing nearly all of India except West Bengal, these malls are designed to be dedicated retail spaces for showcasing and selling indigenous products under the 'One District, One Product' (ODOP) initiative, along with Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged goods and local handicrafts.
For FY23-24, the Union government approved projects totaling nearly Rs 4,796 crore. Uttar Pradesh received the largest allocation of Rs 370.25 crore for three Ekta Malls in Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi, reflecting the state's vast size and diverse craft traditions. Madhya Pradesh followed with Rs 284 crore for a mall in Ujjain, while Assam secured Rs 226 crore for its project in Guwahati. Tamil Nadu (Rs 223 crore for Chennai) and Bihar (Rs 212.69 crore for Patna) also received substantial support. Other notable allocations include Gujarat and Telangana, each sanctioned Rs 202 crore, and Maharashtra, receiving Rs 195.14 crore for a mall in Navi Mumbai.
Under SASCI guidelines, states submitted DPRs on a first-come, first-served basis against a total earmarked budget of Rs 5,000 crore. States are required to provide land for these malls free of cost or cover acquisition expenses.
Prasada emphasized, this initiative aims to create retail-level visibility for India's traditional and regional products, offering artisans and producers a permanent marketing platform in prime urban locations. The malls have been strategically planned for state capitals, financial hubs, or tourism centers to maximize visibility.
While 27 states have secured approvals and funding, some regions, including West Bengal, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh, Ladakh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep, are yet to begin work or receive central clearance for their projects. This ambitious initiative is expected to significantly boost the sales of ODOP and GI products, expanding market access for artisans, weavers, and small producers, thereby fostering local entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
