UP plans ‘One District, One Cuisine’ clusters across all 18 divisions to boost jobs, food exports
According to a press release issued by the Uttar Pradesh Information Department, this initiative aims to provide an organized identity, developed markets and modern amenities to the unique and traditional cuisines of each region. “Overall, the culinary cluster model will serve as a powerful tool to connect the cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh to the modern market. This initiative will not only give a new identity to the traditional flavors of the state but also strengthen the vision of a self-reliant Uttar Pradesh,” the statement said.
Under the Culinary Cluster Model, it is recommended to identify different cuisines from the regions within each division and establish them at the state and national level through quality, packaging, marketing and branding. This will not only preserve traditional flavors but also present them in a way that suits modern consumer preferences.
Under this plan, popular dishes like Agra’s Petha, Mathura’s Peda, Gorakhpur’s Litti-Chokha, Kanpur’s Samosa and Laddoo will be developed as state-level brands. These dishes will no longer be limited to the local market, but will reach national and international markets through e-commerce, food festivals and tourist destinations.
The Yogi government is constantly striving to empower food start-ups, MSMEs and local entrepreneurs. Within the scope of the kitchen cluster model, food processing, packaging units, cold chain, quality testing and training facilities will be developed and new entrepreneurship opportunities will be offered to young people and women.
This initiative will increase investment in the food sector through the government’s pro-industry policy, single window system and ease of doing business. Under the proposed ODOC model, local manufacturers will be provided with FSSAI approval, brand support and market connections, allowing them to develop products that comply with national and international standards.
The state government hopes that culinary cluster-based development will create new employment opportunities, local investment and boost food tourism in the state. ODOC cuisine will be introduced in hotels, restaurants, airports, railway stations and major tourist destinations, ensuring the emergence of Uttar Pradesh as a food destination state.
