Due to the sustained efforts of the Yogi Adityanath government, terracotta products made from the famed baked clay -- a special soil found in Gorakhpur -- are getting global recognition under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme.
"Ahead of Rakshabandhan, the artisans are making terracotta rakhis. The unique designs, different colours and distinct finishing of these rakhis are already winning the hearts of people," a government spokesman said.
In 2018, Yogi Adityanath included terracotta craft in the ODOP scheme to help artisans in branding the products and earning their livelihood. With its inclusion in ODOP, the lives of the terracotta craftsmen have changed. They are getting a better price for their products now and are earning a better income. Now, along with the craftsmen, many other people are joining the idea of innovation in it.
Dr Bhawna Singhal, a resident of Delhi, has got terracotta rakhis made on a large scale by giving designs to the women associated with terracotta. She is also going to organise an exhibition of terracotta rakhis in Gorakhpur on July 15 where these rakhis will also be sold.
According to Bhawna, the idea of terracotta rakhis came from the beautiful terracotta idols kept in her house.
The attractive earthen ornaments of terracotta are also making their mark. Necklaces, jhumkas, earrings, and bracelets made from terracotta are in high demand in the market. The beautiful terracotta jewellery is making fashion statements now.
The lives of terracotta craftsmen have been changed for the better due to the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The demand for terracotta products has increased after their inclusion in the ODOP scheme. This initiative has given a whole new meaning to these products through a spectrum of entrepreneurship and employment.
With the efforts of the Yogi government, terracotta products are quickly gaining popularity. The UP government is going to further strengthen the branding of terracotta through Common Facility Centres. Two CFCs are being built in Gorakhpur. With the formation of CFC, terracotta craftsmen will start getting all facilities including quality checks, and training under one roof. This will further expand the terracotta market.
With the efforts of the government, terracotta products are also available online now on various e-commerce platforms.