Uttar Pradesh Pushes to Expand ODOP Common Facility Centres Through Greater Community Engagement

The Uttar Pradesh government is stepping up its commitment to revitalise traditional industries, handicrafts, weaving, and micro enterprises throughout the state by ensuring wider participation in its Common Facility Centres (CFCs) established under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme.

A comprehensive evaluation of 16 CFC projects spread across the state took place on Tuesday, with a central focus on expanding beneficiary participation. Government officials acknowledged that while these centres offer access to modern technology, training, and marketing infrastructure, their impact has been limited to a small subset of potential users.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had previously raised concerns about the restricted number of beneficiaries utilising several CFCs, emphasising that the scheme's advantages must extend beyond a handful of individuals.

To make these facilities more accessible, the CFC projects operate with a financial structure offering up to 90 percent government subsidy, with entrepreneurs contributing 10 percent. This arrangement enables small business owners to leverage modern machinery, design services, testing facilities, skill training, and shared equipment.

During the review meeting, MSME, Khadi and Village Industries, Silk, Handloom and Textile Minister Rakesh Sachan instructed officials to strengthen public outreach through comprehensive awareness initiatives. The directive encompasses SMS messaging, printed materials, Industry Bandhu meetings, and media engagement. Additionally, all CFCs are to display a 'Citizen Charter' communicating available services to potential users.

The evaluation covered projects in multiple districts: Ambedkar Nagar, Moradabad, Sambhal, Varanasi, Khurja, Agra, Meerut, Saharanpur, Bareilly, Ayodhya, and Ghaziabad.

The Ambedkar Nagar Weaver CFC, which received approximately Rs 4 crore in support, was identified as requiring enhanced outreach to increase weaver participation. Similarly, discussions addressed strategies to boost utilisation of the Banaras Silk Products CFC, backed by nearly Rs 9 crore in assistance.

Artisans and weavers highlighted persistent challenges including electricity supply issues, yarn expenses, market pressures, and the need for technological advancement. Officials noted that the state government has maintained a flat-rate electricity scheme for weavers, with government expenditure on electricity reaching approximately Rs 44 crore between 2006 and March 31, 2023.

The Ghaziabad engineering and tool room CFC showcased modern capabilities including CNC machines, 3D printing technology, material testing, and training programmes. More than 500 young professionals have completed training, with ongoing exploration of defence sector component manufacturing opportunities.

The Moradabad Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) plant was highlighted as demonstrating environmentally sustainable production methods.

The Sambhal button industry CFC demonstrated positive momentum with more than 70 percent capacity utilisation, though officials emphasised the need for improved raw material and electricity availability.

The Khurja Black Pottery CFC emerged as a standout success story during the review. The project engages over 1,253 beneficiaries, with business turnover climbing from Rs 15-20 lakh to approximately Rs 90-95 lakh. Officials cited this as exemplary integration of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary market dynamics. Artisans requested additional land for clay storage facilities.

The Saharanpur Wood Craft, Agra Leather Cluster, and jaggery processing operations in Bareilly and Meerut also underwent review. The Meerut initiative's success in integrating 1,800 farmers and facilitating value-added production received commendation.

Officials received instructions to conduct Udyog Bandhu meetings within CFC locations and establish linkages with larger industrial enterprises to facilitate market access and supply chain integration for smaller businesses.

The government's overarching goal remains enabling craftspeople and artisans engaged in traditional sectors to harness modern technology and achieve economic independence.