<h1>27 States Get Rs. 5,000 Cr for PM Ekta Malls to Boost Local Products Under Special Assistance Scheme 2023-24</h1> Twenty-seven states have been approved to construct PM Ekta Malls under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2023-24, with a total allocation of Rs. 5,000 crore by the Ministry of Finance. These malls aim to promote One District One Product (ODOP), Geographical Indication (GI), and handicraft products, providing dedicated spaces for each state and union territory. Funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with an exception for one large state permitted to build three malls within the budget. The land for mall construction is provided or acquired at the state's expense. The Department of Expenditure has sanctioned approximately Rs. 4,795.87 crore based on detailed project reports recommended by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. The initiative seeks to bolster local industries by facilitating the sale and promotion of regional products in strategically located malls, primarily in state capitals or prominent commercial centers.