In a significant move to strengthen local economies and promote artisanal heritage, the Bihar government has unveiled a state-wide initiative to identify one unique product from each block under the national Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self‑Reliant India) campaign . The effort, led by the state’s Department of Industries, ties into the central government’s One District, One Product (ODOP) vision.
Key Highlights
- Block‑level mapping: District officials have been asked to name one standout product per block—ranging from agriculture, textiles, leather, and handicrafts to MSME outputs—within a strict 10‑day deadline for detailed reporting.
- Local-to-global promotion: Identified products will be marketed nationally and internationally, positioning each district as a niche export centre through local specialisation.
- “One Block, One Product” model: Complementing ODOP, Bihar’s deep dive into block-level specialities aims to spotlight rural craftsmanship and agricultural brilliance in every corner of the state.
Minister’s Vision
Industries Minister Nitish Mishra emphasised the importance of this granular approach:
“Every block in Bihar has something special to offer. By identifying and promoting these products, we are not only spotlighting the region’s potential but also laying the groundwork for long‑term economic self‑reliance.”
Mishra, who has headed the Industries & Tourism Department since March 2024, added that the initiative would broaden the reach of local artisans and small entrepreneurs .
Strategic Impact
This campaign aligns with Bihar’s broader industrial and economic ambitions:
- Boosting the rural economy: With agriculture contributing around 20% to Bihar’s GDP, and a significant portion of the population engaged in farming and allied sectors, the drive will uplift block‑level earners.
- Enriching Bihar’s export ecosystem: Identifying signature products at the block level enables the formation of specialised producer clusters, fostering higher value-addition and global trade opportunities.
- Reinforcing Atmanirbhar Bharat: By strengthening local industries, the initiative resonates with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India self-reliant, deepening grassroots participation in economic development.
District authorities will begin collecting information on products with regional importance and export potential. Once each block finalises its product, the state government will follow up with funding, training, branding, and market linkages. Experts expect this to significantly elevate Bihar’s position in PM Modi’s national push for local manufacturing and entrepreneurship.
