Uttar Pradesh plans ‘One District, One Cuisine’ push to take local flavours global

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. (File photo/PTI)

After the popularity of the One District, One Product (ODOP) scheme, the Uttar Pradesh government is preparing to introduce One District, One Cuisine, (ODOC) a focused effort to showcase traditional dishes and transform the state into a hub of food tourism and culinary businesses.

A senior government official said the scheme will highlight local identity through food. “Every district has a signature flavour rooted in its culture. We want the world to experience the authentic taste of Uttar Pradesh,” the official said.

The scheme is expected to generate direct and indirect jobs for families involved in traditional cooking and food-related activities. Small hotels, restaurants, cafés and food startups could see increased business as each district’s cuisine gets its own branding and recognition.

Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh told Moneycontrol: "Tourism is likely to receive a significant push as travellers would be encouraged to explore different regions to experience their signature dishes, strengthening local markets and hospitality businesses."

"The initiative also aims to revive traditional dishes that have faded over time," Singh said.  "By promoting them through formal channels and expanding market access, families who have safeguarded these culinary traditions for generations may gain sustained income" he said.

The state’s rich food diversity ranges from Awadhi biryani and kebabs in Lucknow, Banarasi chaat in Varanasi, Mughlai delicacies in Rampur, Bedhai-poori of Agra, Mathura peda, Prayagraj’s khus-khus halwa to Bundelkhand’s rustic cuisine and the millet-based dishes of western UP.

Food Tourism Boost

Hospitality experts believe the initiative will redefine tourism trends in the state. “Food is the new travel motivator,” said Ritu Bhatnagar, a Lucknow-based hospitality consultant. “If districts are branded around their cuisines, tourists will be eager to explore the lesser-known towns, not just Varanasi or Agra.”

The tourism department estimates that culinary tourism could help increase domestic footfall by up to 20 percent in the first phase, with ripple effects on hotels, markets and transport.

Market and Export Potential

Exporters say the initiative could boost global demand for UP food products. “Awadhi frozen meals, Banarasi snacks and Rampuri spices already have a small international market. With district branding and improved packaging, these products can gain strong export identity,” said Deepak Agarwal, a food processing entrepreneur.

Economists note that the state’s food processing ecosystem is already expanding under the ODOP model. “One District, One Cuisine builds on an existing success story. It can directly uplift farmers, dairy workers, butchers, spice traders and women’s self-help groups,” said Nomita P Kumar of Giri Institute of Development Studies, Lucknow.

Preserving culinary heritage

Experts also stress that many traditional dishes have been overshadowed by mass-market food trends. “Recipes passed down through families are disappearing. This initiative will help revive them and provide livelihood to the custodians of culinary heritage,” said Dr. Meera Zaidi, a culinary historian at Banaras Hindu University.

The scheme is likely to encourage certification for authenticity, quality training for chefs and tie-ups with national-level food platforms. District-wise food festivals, online branding and curated food trails are also being discussed.

Officials say the government is gathering feedback from industry stakeholders and will soon finalise a roadmap.

Like ODOP, One District, One Cuisine is being positioned as a bridge between tradition and economic growth. If implemented effectively, Uttar Pradesh could emerge as a global destination where every district tells its story through food.