Unity Malls
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Introduction
In the Budget 2023-24, Union Finance Minister unveiled a remarkable initiative – the establishment of a ‘Unity-Mall’ in each state of the country.
- These malls are envisioned to be strategically located, preferably in the respective state capital, financial capital or one of the prominent tourist centres.
- Mall Design, Amenities and features: The Department of Expenditure in the Ministry of Finance, GoI, has issued comprehensive guidelines to States regarding the construction of Unity Malls:
- The architectural design of these malls should signify India’s Unity and Grandeur. They are required to have a standardized signage design, as prescribed by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). It should also incorporate ODOP logo and Make in India logo. Additionally, the states are encouraged to explore the use of multilingual signage, showcasing India’s rich linguistic diversity.
- One Shop(Space) for every state/UT: The guideline further stipulates that each unity mall should have minimum 36 commercial spaces, with one designated for each state or UT for the sale and promotion of ODOP products. These spaces should have uniform floor space and should be subjected to consistent rental provisions. This is to ensure equitable representation of nation’s diversity.
- It will enable sale of GI products, ODOP offerings and other prominent regional
products.
- It will enable sale of GI products, ODOP offerings and other prominent regional
- Each unity mall should also allocate commercial space of equal size for every district within the state, including those districts that have been announced by not yet formally notified.
- The design should also incorporate flexibility to accommodate the expansion of commercial spaces as needed.
- Range of Essential features: State-of-the art food court, ample parking facilities, and purpose-built spaces for recreational and cultural activities, all tailored to their respective scales. Functional areas for conferences, events, galleries and exhibitions should also be incorporated into the design.
- These malls should also offer technology-driven experience such as VR, AR, Digital displays, and interactive Kiosks.
- Special attentions must be devoted to ensure convenience and accessibility in compliance with National Building Code standards.
- States have also been urged to provide financial assistance to facilitate the participation of sellers from distant regions and remote districts.
- They are also supposed to empower local ODOP sellers by implementing capacity building programs.
- States are also encouraged to undertake promotional activities aimed at establishing Unity Malls as vibrant cultural hubs and attractive tourist destinations.
- To ensure long term sustainability of Unity Malls, their operation and maintenance will be structured under PPP model.
- In this arrangement ownership of the mall remain with the state government, while O&M responsibilities will be entrusted to private players.
- A concession period of 30 years have been recommended for this PPP.
- Furthermore, states are expected to commit to covering the operational expenses of the malls if such support become necessary.
- In case a state/district chooses not to participate in the mall, the private party responsible for Malls’ O&M will actively seek out sellers who can showcase and sell ODOP products in the commercial spaces designated for that specific state or district.
- Artisans who are not able to get space within the mall, will be periodically allocated exhibition spaces allowing them to display and sell their products.
Approval Procedure and State of Implementation:
- DPR is submitted to the DPIIT which meticulously evaluates and then subsequently recommends an amount, not exceeding the amount allocated for the state, to the Department of Expenditure which grants final approval and disburse the funds.
- So far, final approval for construction of Unity Mall in 8 states have been given. These include Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, MP, MHA, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura.
Support from Centre:
- As part of the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Expenditure (interest free 50- year loan), a substantial sum of Rs 5,000 crore has been specifically earmarked to extend financial support to states for the construction of Unity Mall.
- The amount is allocated to states based on the number of districts.
Contribution of States:
- State will provide land for the malls free of cost and may also allocate additional funds for the project from their budget.
The initiative to establish Unity Malls throughout the nation draws inspiration from the successful ‘Ekta Mall” in Kevadia, Gujarat.
Advantages:
- It will advance infrastructure development throughout the country and stimulate capital investment within the states.
- Contribute to overall economic prosperity:
- Expedite progress towards ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
- Offers local artisans opportunities to showcase and sell their products, create employment opportunities and facilitate skill development.
- It also bolsters tourism.
- Foster national unity and diversity:
- Champion local cuisine
- Celebrate cultural heritages.
Conclusion:
This unique initiative of GoI is poised to play pivotal roles in fostering economic development, providing citizens with recreational spaces, enhancing tourism, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of our diverse and unique nation distinctively.