Udupi to shine as hub for ‘Gems and Jewellery’ Manufacturing under ODOP

Team Udayavani, Jun 18, 2024, 8:41 AM IST

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Under the ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) scheme, Udupi has already assigned “Marine Products” as its district product. Now, it has been decided to develop the district into a hub of “Gems and Jewellery Manufacturing” under the scheme.

The ODOP scheme, part of the central government’s Aatma Nirbhar initiative, aims to promote non-agricultural MSME products through district administrations or district industrial centers. The state government has decided to provide special encouragement and branding for these products. Thus, all districts have selected a non-agricultural product as their unique district product.

Gems and Jewellery Manufacturing:

Udupi is home to the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewelry (IIGJ), the only institute of its kind in South India. The district has a rich heritage in gem and pearl jewelry manufacturing, with over 5,000 skilled gold and silver craftsmen. The jewelry produced here is popular both domestically and internationally. Consequently, the district administration will also promote this brand on its official website.

Focusing on the district’s socio-economic development, branding will facilitate attracting investments to boost production and exports. This initiative will also create job opportunities. Utilizing available technologies at the district level, branding the product will enhance its competitive edge in both national and international markets, according to an official.

‘Navaratna’ Testing Lab:

Another reason for selecting gems and jewelry manufacturing as the district’s brand is the presence of a Gem Testing Lab in Udupi. Located near the Coastal Bypass at IIGJ, these labs identify genuine gems, making it difficult to counterfeit them and eliminating the need to send samples to distant labs for verification.

“Udupi has chosen gems and jewelry manufacturing in the non-agricultural products category. The product’s branding and export will be encouraged,” said Nagaraj V. Nayak, Joint Director, Udupi District Industrial Center.

Textile Processing in Dakshina Kannada:

Meanwhile, the neighbouring Dakshina Kannada district has chosen textile processing as its district product, which the state government has approved. Through the district industrial center, the focus will be on enhancing textile product processing and boosting exports.