India-Maldives
India exports Karnataka's Neelam, Totapuri mangoes to Maldives for first time. Here's why it matters
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes from Karnataka to the Maldives.
The consignment, flagged off on July 30, marks a significant milestone in promoting Karnataka's late-season mango varieties in international markets while further strengthening India's mango export portfolio.
The shipment was flagged off by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, IAS, who lauded the collaborative efforts of the exporter, the Farmer Producer Company (FPC), farmers and other stakeholders involved in making the export possible.
He said such initiatives expand market access for Indian mangoes, create new export opportunities for late-season varieties and contribute to sustainable income growth for farmers.
The export consignment, comprising one metric tonne of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes, was sourced directly from farmers associated with Prakruthimaya Farmers Producer Company Ltd. in KGF Taluk of Karnataka's Kolar district.
The shipment was exported by Ashwini A, Director of Ahalya Devi Ventures, a newly registered woman entrepreneur and exporter, highlighting the increasing participation of women entrepreneurs in India's agri-export ecosystem.
What Makes Neelam and Totapuri Mangoes Special?
Neelam mangoes are widely prized for their sweet, juicy pulp, rich aroma and suitability for desserts, smoothies and beverages.
Totapuri mangoes are known for their distinctive parrot-beak shape, sweet-tangy flavour and versatility for both fresh consumption and food processing.
Harvested from late June to the end of July, these late-season varieties help extend India's mango export season, enabling exporters to cater to global demand even after the peak harvest period.
Boost for Farmers and Karnataka's Horticulture Sector
The air shipment underscores the growing export potential of Karnataka's horticulture sector and highlights the vital role played by Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) in connecting farmers with international markets through organised aggregation, quality produce and export-oriented supply chains.
Farmers associated with the FPC earned more than 50 per cent higher returns through this export initiative compared to conventional market channels.
The achievement demonstrates the benefits of direct procurement, export market linkages and organised aggregation in enhancing farmers' incomes while encouraging wider adoption of export-oriented cultivation practices.
The export is expected to open a new chapter in Karnataka's mango export journey by encouraging greater participation from Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), exporters and agri-entrepreneurs in tapping premium international markets.
APEDA said it will continue working closely with state governments, exporters, Farmer Producer Organisations, Farmer Producer Companies and other stakeholders to strengthen export infrastructure, improve global market access and promote India's premium fruits worldwide.
The initiative is expected to contribute to the diversification of India's agricultural exports while creating sustainable income opportunities for farmers and boosting the country's horticulture sector.
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