12 March 2026, Mumbai
The national capital is poised to establish a cultural and commercial hub dedicated to showcasing India’s diverse craftsmanship. With a budgetary commitment of approximately 100 crore, a flagship PM Ekta Mall - spearheaded by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) - aims to create a permanent marketplace for indigenous products. The initiative aligns with the Union government's broader allocation of 5,000 crore to construct similar unity malls across all states, reinforcing the national commitment to the Vocal for Local and Make in India movements.
Curating a national retail ecosystem
Designed to function as more than a conventional shopping center, the Delhi facility will span a minimum of 1,200 sq m. The complex is structured to feature 36 dedicated stalls, with each space representing a specific state or Union Territory. This arrangement ensures that consumers have direct access to signature regional goods, particularly those identified under the 'One District, One Product' (ODOP) scheme and those holding Geographical Indication (GI) tags. By centralizing these regional specialties, the mall is expected to bridge the existing gap between rural artisans and urban consumers, providing a platform that emphasizes cultural exchange as much as commercial trade.
Infrastructure for tourism and commerce
Beyond its retail footprint, the project integrates modern infrastructure to enhance consumer experience. The proposed complex will house a regional food court, specialized exhibition areas, and venues for cultural performances, conferences, and summits. By situating the mall in high-footfall areas - with potential locations like Netaji Subhash Place, INA, or Majnu Ka Tilla under evaluation - the DTTDC aims to ensure maximum commercial viability and visibility. The implementation strategy involves appointing specialized consultants to oversee the conceptual design and secure necessary regulatory approvals, ensuring the mall operates as a sustainable hub for both tourism and economic empowerment for small-scale producers.
The PM Ekta Mall (or Unity Mall) is a central government initiative launched under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI). It provides interest-free, 50-year loans to states for establishing retail hubs that promote local handicrafts, ODOP, and GI-tagged products from all states and Union Territories.
