Image for illustration purposes only. | Photo credit: File
The Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday (March 14, 2026) said products from 75 districts of the state will get national and international platforms through PM Unity Malls. Aimed at providing new markets for local products and traditional handicrafts, the initiative is implemented through PM Unity Malls in Agra, Varanasi and Lucknow.
“The aim of these malls is to create a permanent platform where traditional industries, handicrafts and local products can be exhibited and sold at one place. This initiative will enable artisans, women and youth to connect directly with larger markets. ODOP (One District One Product) and GI marked products from different districts of the state will gain national and international recognition,” an official statement said.
The initiative is expected to revive traditional industries that are declining in rural areas. “This move by the government not only strengthens the livelihood of artisans but also introduces local products as a new ‘Swadeshi’ force. The central government’s ambitious PM Unity Mall project is shaping up to be a major hub for the sale, display and branding of local products in the states,” the statement added.
In Agra, Unity Mall is being constructed in Shilpgram area on about 11.53 acres of land at a cost of about ₹128.85 crore. Excavations for basement, base plain cement concrete, reinforced cement concrete (RCC) and also RCC work for basement columns and retaining walls have been completed. The facility will provide a platform for branded and market handicrafts and traditional products from the region of Braj, Agra, Firozabad and surrounding districts in the national and international markets.
In Varanasi, Unity Mall is being developed in Ganganagar Colony on an area of about 1.46 acres at a cost of around ₹ 154.71 crore. The work on the D-wall has been completed, currently work is underway on the foundation of the basement-3. The mall will provide dedicated space for the display and sale of Banarasi sarees, zari-zardozi work, wooden toys, rudraksha and other traditional products.
Once completed, Unity Malls will offer a common platform to showcase products from all 75 districts of the state. This will help increase the income of local artisans, create new job opportunities and strengthen the rural economy. The initiative will also promote Swadeshi products and boost tourism in the region.
Published – 14 March 2026 20:16 IST
