In a significant achievement for Indian agriculture, the first-ever export of rose-scented litchis took place from Pathankot, Punjab to Qatar. On June 23, 2025, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated this milestone. The consignment included 1 metric tonne of premium litchis. Additionally, 0.5 metric tonne of litchis was sent to Dubai, marking a double success for the region. This initiative showcases India’s growing potential in the global fresh fruit market.
Punjab has been a major player in the litchi production sector. According to the National Horticulture Board, the state produced 71,490 metric tonnes of litchis in the 2023-24 fiscal year. This figure contributes over 12% of India’s total litchi output. The area under cultivation for litchis in Punjab is approximately 4,327 hectares, with an average yield of 16,523 kg per hectare.
The success of this export is credited to the collaboration between APEDA, the Punjab government, and local farmers. One such farmer, Prabhat Singh from Sujanpur, played a key role in supplying high-quality litchis. His success highlights the potential of Pathankot as a hub for quality litchi cultivation.
The Indian government is keen on expanding its agricultural exports. The overall export of fruits and vegetables from India reached USD 3.87 billion in the 2024-25 fiscal year. This shows a growth of 5.67% compared to the previous year. While traditional fruits like mangoes, bananas, and oranges dominate the market, litchis are gaining traction in international sales.
This export initiative is crucial for farmers. It provides them with access to international markets and helps enhance their income. The government aims to empower farmers and improve their competitiveness globally. APEDA plays a vital role in these efforts, ensuring that farmers can access new markets for their products.
The export of rose-scented litchis represents a new chapter for Indian horticulture. It demonstrates the quality of Indian produce and its potential to compete internationally. Farmers in Pathankot can benefit significantly from this development. With favourable agro-climatic conditions, the region is well-suited for litchi cultivation.
As the world becomes more interconnected, the demand for high-quality fruits grows. Indian farmers must adapt to these changes to thrive in the global market. The success of this export serves as an example of what can be achieved with the right support and collaboration.
In conclusion, the first export of rose-scented litchis from Pathankot to Qatar is a proud moment for Indian agriculture. It showcases the capabilities of Indian farmers and highlights the government’s commitment to expanding agricultural exports. With continued support, Indian litchis could become a favourite in international markets, benefiting farmers and the economy alike.