On Thursday, Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan Majhi, celebrated a significant milestone in the state’s agricultural journey. He flagged off the first mango export to Abu Dhabi from Bhubaneswar. This event marks a new era for farmers in Odisha, especially those in Balangir district. The mangoes exported were from the famous Amrapali variety, which is known for its sweetness and quality. This is not just a win for the farmers but also a testament to the hard work of Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) in the region.
The mango export is part of a larger initiative to boost Odisha’s agricultural exports. With the direct flight service from Biju Patnaik International Airport to Abu Dhabi, the state now has direct connections to four international destinations. This includes Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok. Such connectivity opens up new markets for Odisha’s farmers, allowing them to sell their products worldwide.
Around 50 tonnes of mangoes were sent to the UAE on the first flight. This export is expected to improve the incomes of local farmers significantly. It will also give them access to international markets, which is crucial for their growth.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of this event, stating, “This is not just the export of mangoes; it is the export of our farmers’ hard work, dedication, and dreams.” He highlighted the role of FPCs in transforming the agricultural landscape of Odisha. These organizations help farmers by providing essential support, training, and access to markets.
Earlier this month, a training session was held in Patnagarh, where farmers learned about preparing their products for international markets. This training was organized by Palladium, an organization focused on improving agricultural practices and market access for farmers. The training aimed to enhance the mango value chain, ensuring that farmers are ready to meet international quality standards.
In addition to the export to Abu Dhabi, Odisha has also sent mangoes to London and Birmingham in the UK. This is part of the state’s effort to increase its share in the global agricultural market. The recent Mango Festival celebrations in Sambalpur also saw the export of 3.5 tonnes of premium mangoes to these cities in England, showcasing the high demand for Odisha’s agricultural products.
The government, along with organizations like NABARD and Palladium, is working to support farmers in this transition. An Export Sensitization Workshop was recently held, aimed at educating Farmer Producer Organizations about the export process and market strategies. This workshop was part of a broader initiative to build the capabilities of farmers and help them navigate international markets.
The success of these exports not only boosts the local economy but also sets a precedent for future agricultural exports from Odisha. As the state continues to enhance its agricultural capabilities, the focus remains on sustainable practices and empowering farmers, especially women, to participate in the global economy.
Odisha is on its way to becoming a trusted supplier of high-quality agricultural products. This export initiative is a step towards achieving that goal, creating pathways for better livelihoods and sustainable rural prosperity. With ongoing support and training, Odisha’s farmers are set to thrive in the global market, showcasing their dedication and the quality of their produce.
As this initiative unfolds, it will be exciting to see how it impacts the lives of farmers and the agricultural landscape of Odisha. The future looks promising for the state as it takes bold steps towards global agricultural excellence.