Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: The Centre’s One Station One Product (OSOP) scheme to empower women artisans has expanded at a robust pace with as many as 1,854 outlets showcasing diverse local products at various railway stations across the country. “Central Railway alone accounts for 157 of these outlets, demonstrating its strong commitment to the initiative,” said Ity Pandey, Divisional Railway Manager at Bhusaval.
Within Central Railway, she said, Bhusaval division stands out with 25 operational OSOP outlets, all of which are thriving and actively contributing to the local economy. “Notably, all of them are led by women,” she emphasised. “Women entrepreneurs are showcasing local products ranging from Paithani sarees and purses to packed roasted products in Bhusaval and Jalgaon, and bamboo crafts in Akola,” Pandey observed.
Started as a pilot project in March 2022, the ‘One Station One Product’ initiative provides uniquely designed sale outlets for locals to sell indigenous products. These stalls at identified railway stations for the sale and promotion of items sourced from local manufacturers improve their skills and livelihood. Women from low-income groups are leading these enterprises. These outlets are becoming profitable platforms that also provide training and employment opportunities to other women in the community.
