Gonda: A one-day workshop under the One District, One Product (ODOP) scheme was organised at the District Panchayat Auditorium in Gonda on Saturday by the District Industries Promotion and Entrepreneurship Development Centre.
During the workshop, officials announced the selection of Gonda’s popular kachori and dahi bada from Itiyathok under the ODOP initiative. Entrepreneurs and beneficiaries attending the programme were briefed in detail about the opportunities, facilities and scope available under the scheme.
An official from the Khadi and Village Industries Department highlighted the opportunities available for self-employment and setting up enterprises under the scheme. Officials from the Food Department provided guidance on improved packaging of food products, hygiene and sanitation standards, quality control and the appropriate use of approved food colours.
The Labour Department also briefed participants on labour laws and various welfare schemes available for workers.
During the workshop, entrepreneur Bhupendra Arya and Itiyathok-based entrepreneur Kripashankar Shukla shared their experiences and views. They described the ODOP initiative as a useful platform for giving local products wider recognition and improving their market access.
The workshop was attended by the Deputy Commissioner of Industries, District Khadi and Village Industries Officer, Labour Enforcement Officer, Assistant Food Safety Officer, representatives of the Food Safety Commissioner and the Weights and Measures Department, along with a large number of entrepreneurs and other dignitaries.
Officials stressed the need to promote traditional local food products and connect them with wider markets through quality assurance, improved hygiene and attractive packaging, thereby creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and strengthening the district’s food-based enterprises.
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