NFR’s OSOP Initiative: Empowering Artisans and Showcasing Heritage Across 142 Stations

GUWAHATI: In a major step toward supporting local artisans and preserving cultural heritage, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has launched “One Station One Product” (OSOP) outlets at 142 railway stations under its jurisdiction.

Aligned with the #Vocal4Local mission, this initiative has turned railway stations into bustling hubs that celebrate the rich diversity of local and indigenous crafts, while fostering economic empowerment within communities.

Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NFR, stated, “The OSOP stalls have played a vital role in promoting the region’s cultural heritage while enhancing the livelihoods of local artisans and vendors. By offering them a platform at railway stations, we are fostering a sustainable ecosystem for their growth and empowerment.”

By December 31, 2024, OSOP outlets were operational at 142 stations across five divisions of the Northeast Frontier Railway. These include 79 stalls in Assam, 43 in West Bengal, 13 in Bihar, 4 in Tripura, 2 in Arunachal Pradesh, and 1 in Nagaland.

Each outlet features a distinctive selection of handcrafted items, including Assamese pithas, traditional Gamosas, Japi hats, jute crafts, bamboo and cane artifacts, Darjeeling tea, and locally crafted designer jewelry, among other unique products.

Train passengers can now experience the cultural essence of the region during their journey stopovers. “These stalls are not merely shops; they serve as windows into the rich heritage of the Northeast. Through their products, passengers can connect with the artisans' stories,” added Sharma.

The initiative has sparked a wave of economic empowerment for artisans. “It’s transforming lives. Artisans who once struggled to find a market now have a platform to flourish,” shared a stall owner at Guwahati station.

The growing success of the OSOP scheme highlights NFR’s dedication to cultural preservation and community empowerment, establishing a benchmark for inclusive development.

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