Malda launches ‘Aamar Malda’ store under Centre’s ODOP umbrella to promote district’s signature products

In a major initiative to promote Malda’s renowned products and strengthen local entrepreneurship under the Centre’s One District One Product (ODOP) program, the Malda district administration has launched the ‘Aamar Malda Store’, to create a dedicated retail platform for the district’s signature products, including its world-famous mangoes, silk and traditional handicrafts.

The store, inaugurated at Malda Samabayika on Tuesday on Netaji Subhash Road in collaboration with the Malda Wholesale Consumers’ Co-operative Society Ltd.

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The project aims to enhance branding, retail visibility and market access for local artisans, women self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organisations (FPOs), entrepreneurs and micro-enterprises.

District Magistrate Rajanvir Singh Kapoor said the initiative reaffirms the administration’s commitment to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities while establishing ‘Aamar Malda’ as a trusted regional brand rooted in the district’s heritage, quality and local enterprise.

“This is not merely a retail outlet but a common platform to showcase and market Malda’s finest products while empowering artisans, women SHGs, farmers, producer organisations and entrepreneurs by connecting them with wider markets. The initiative reflects the vision of Vocal for Local and Atmanirbhar Bharat through inclusive growth and local value addition,” Kapoor said.

The store offers a wide range of authentic products representing Malda’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage, including mango-based products, pickles, processed food items, makhana, silk products, terracotta artefacts, bamboo and jute crafts, decorative items and other products made by local artisans, SHGs and producer collectives.

Designed with traditional folk art and motifs inspired by Malda’s historical landmarks, the outlet offers visitors an immersive cultural experience. Officials credited local industry leaders and merchant bodies for contributing to the store’s aesthetic development.

North Malda MP Khagen Murmu, who attended the inauguration along with Minister of State Joel Murmu, State Assembly Chief Whip Amlan Bhaduri and other BJP MLAs, hailed the initiative.

“Malda has immense potential in agriculture, food processing and traditional crafts. A platform like Aamar Malda Store will help our local products reach wider markets, create new economic opportunities and bring due recognition to our farmers, artisans and entrepreneurs,” the MP said.

According to official sources, the initiative also complements several Government of India programmes aimed at promoting livelihoods, food processing, enterprise development, women’s empowerment, skill development and market promotion.

The inaugural programme was attended by senior government officials, representatives of the Malda Merchant Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, the Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture (CISH), artisans, entrepreneurs, SHG members and local residents. The event concluded with vibrant performances by renowned Gambhira folk artists, showcasing Malda’s rich cultural heritage.