Correct Answer : 1,037
The “One Station One Product” initiative by the Indian Railways, which provides uniquely designed sale outlets for locals to sell indigenous products, is now operational at 1,037 stations nationwide.
The scheme, designed by the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, provides distinctive outlets that give high visibility to indigenous products, benefiting local craftsmen. A senior railway official noted that the scheme is gaining momentum, and more stations are expected to have these outlets soon.
‘One Station One Product’ scheme – Tamil Nadu leads :
* Launched on May 20 last year after a successful 15-day pilot project, the scheme has gained popularity among local artisans and workers. As of November 9 this year, 1,134 outlets are operational at 1,037 stations across 27 states. Tamil Nadu leads with 146 outlets at 137 stations, followed by West Bengal with a similar number at 123 stations, and Uttar Pradesh in third place with 112 outlets at 105 stations.
* Up to November 9, 39,847 direct beneficiaries have availed opportunities under this scheme. Considering five indirect beneficiaries for each allotment, the total beneficiaries amount to 1,43,232. The scheme has recorded total sales of Rs 49.58 crore.
OSOP scheme aims to enhance livelihoods :
* The OSOP scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2022-23, aims to enhance livelihoods through skill development for local artisans, weavers, and craftsmen. Sale outlets are provided at stations nationwide, allotted through a tendering process.
Indian Railways spreads the scheme :
* The policy emphasises reaching the scheme’s benefits to the target groups and providing opportunities to all applicants. To achieve this, the Indian Railways has adopted various public outreach measures, including advertising in newspapers, social media, public announcements, press notifications, and personal visits to artisans.
* Products sold at these outlets are indigenous to the respective areas and include artefacts, handicrafts, textiles, handlooms, toys, leather products, traditional appliances/instruments, garments, gems and jewellery, and locally made or grown processed and semi-processed food products..
Source : Financial Express
