The Northeast Frontier Railway’s Katihar Division has officially launched the ‘One Station One Product’ (OSOP) initiative at three key stations in the Kishanganj district. Effective from August 18, 2026, this move aims to provide a dedicated platform for local artisans and regional producers to showcase their goods to a wider audience of rail passengers.
- Kishanganj railway station will feature the region’s famous Litti-Chokha.
- Galgalia railway station is designated for showcasing fresh vegetables.
- Thakurganj railway station will focus on displaying handicraft materials.
Boosting Local Economy and Artisans
The OSOP scheme is a flagship initiative aimed at empowering local craftsmen, weavers, and small-scale entrepreneurs. By integrating these local products into the railway infrastructure, the initiative seeks to create sustainable employment opportunities and increase the income of regional producers. This direct connection between passengers and local vendors helps in promoting indigenous products while providing travelers with a taste of the local culture.
Eligibility and Stall Allocation Details
To ensure the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries, the railway administration has set specific eligibility criteria for stall allocation. Participation is restricted to authorized artisan and weaver ID card holders, tribal craftspeople, registered self-help groups, and micro-enterprises registered under MSME.
In line with policy updates introduced in April 2023, the Indian Railways has made the application process more accessible. The license fee for stall allocation has been reduced to 500 rupees per 15 days for smaller stations. Furthermore, to provide greater operational stability for the vendors, the allocation period for these stalls can now be extended from 15 days up to 3 months. This flexibility is expected to encourage more local businesses to participate in the scheme and thrive within the railway ecosystem.