New Delhi, July 14, 2025 – Pulwama District in Jammu and Kashmir has been honored with the prestigious National One District One Product Award 2024 for its outstanding contributions toward realizing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat . The award was presented by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal during a grand ceremony held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on Monday.The recognition highlights Pulwama’s exceptional efforts in promoting its signature ODOP product, saffron, which has gained global acclaim for its quality and cultural significance. The district’s initiatives in enhancing value addition, improving branding, and expanding market reach for saffron align with the government’s goal of fostering self-reliance and boosting local economies through the ODOP initiative.Key Highlights of the Award Ceremony
- Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphasised the uniqueness of the ODOP initiative, stating, “No other country has a program like ODOP. Products like Pulwama’s saffron, Wayanad’s coffee, and Ratnagiri’s mangoes showcase India’s diverse legacy and potential to conquer global markets.”
- Pulwama’s efforts in sustainable production and quality enhancement of saffron have positioned it as a key contributor to India’s export potential, supporting first-time exporters and new market exploration.
- The ODOP initiative, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to identify and promote one unique product from each district, fostering economic empowerment and rural development. Over 1,200 products from more than 750 districts have been identified under this program.
Pulwama’s Contribution to Aatmanirbhar BharatPulwama’s saffron, often referred to as the “red gold” of Kashmir, has been a focal point of the district’s ODOP strategy. The district administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Basharat Qayoom, has implemented innovative measures to enhance saffron cultivation, improve packaging, and ensure sustainability. These efforts have not only boosted local employment but also elevated the global reputation of Kashmiri saffron.The award underscores Pulwama’s role in aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision by:
- Promoting value addition through advanced processing and packaging techniques.
- Strengthening export potential by connecting local producers to global markets.
- Supporting rural artisans and farmers, ensuring economic empowerment and sustainable growth.
Statements from Key Figures
- Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, lauded Pulwama’s achievements, stating, “The ODOP initiative is a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. Pulwama’s saffron is a shining example of how local products can achieve global recognition.”
- Dr. Basharat Qayoom, Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama, expressed gratitude, saying, “This award is a recognition of the hard work of our farmers and artisans. We are committed to further elevating Pulwama’s saffron as a global brand under the ODOP framework.”
Broader Impact of the ODOP InitiativeThe ODOP Awards 2024, held in New Delhi, celebrated the achievements of various districts across India, with states like Andhra Pradesh securing 10 awards, including recognition for Dharmavaram silk sarees and Narsapuram crochet lace. The initiative continues to drive economic growth, tourism, and global trade by promoting sustainable and high-quality products.
The Commerce Ministry, under Shri Goyal’s leadership, announced plans to issue new guidelines to support first-time exporters and promote ODOP products in new markets, further aligning with the vision of a self-reliant India
