In a landmark achievement for Jharkhand’s horticulture sector, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has facilitated the State’s first commercial export of fresh mangoes to the United Kingdom. The inaugural consignment was officially flagged off in Kolkata on June 4, marking a significant step toward integrating Jharkhand’s farmers with global agricultural markets.
The shipment consists of 1.5 metric tonnes of premium-quality Amrapali mangoes sourced from Beura Farmer Producer Company Ltd., an all-women Farmer Producer Company (FPC) based in Bano Block of Simdega district. The mangoes are being exported by Kolkata-based JGB Agrofresh Pvt. Ltd. to buyers in London, reflecting growing international demand for Indian fruits.
The export initiative is the result of sustained efforts by APEDA to strengthen the export readiness of farmer groups in Jharkhand. Earlier this year, on May 5, APEDA organized an Export-Oriented Capacity Building Programme in Simdega district. The programme brought together Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and progressive farmers to educate them about export procedures, international quality standards, packaging requirements, and overseas market opportunities.
Following the training programme, APEDA played a key role in establishing a direct linkage between Beura Farmer Producer Company Ltd. and JGB Agrofresh Pvt. Ltd. This partnership enabled the procurement of export-grade Amrapali mangoes from local farmers and facilitated their entry into international markets.
The successful shipment has provided a major boost to the women-led farmer collective. By participating directly in the export value chain, members of the FPC were able to secure better prices for their produce compared to those available in domestic markets. The initiative demonstrates how organized farmer groups can benefit from global trade opportunities when provided with the necessary market access and institutional support.
Officials believe the development will encourage farmers across the region to adopt improved cultivation techniques, better post-harvest handling practices, and internationally accepted quality standards. Such measures are essential for ensuring consistent product quality and enhancing competitiveness in overseas markets.
Jharkhand possesses favorable agro-climatic conditions for horticultural production, particularly for fruits such as mangoes. The Amrapali variety grown in the State is widely appreciated for its rich flavor, attractive appearance, and high pulp content, making it suitable for both domestic and international consumers. With the successful export of this consignment, Jharkhand has joined the growing list of Indian states supplying fresh fruits to global destinations.
The achievement also highlights the potential of women-led and community-based farmer organizations in driving rural economic growth. By creating direct market linkages and reducing dependence on intermediaries, export initiatives can significantly improve farmers’ incomes and strengthen local agricultural economies.
APEDA continues to support agricultural exports through a range of interventions, including capacity-building programmes, market development initiatives, quality certification systems, traceability mechanisms, and export promotion activities. The authority has placed special emphasis on enabling smallholder farmers, women-led enterprises, and tribal producer organizations to participate in international trade.
The first commercial export of fresh mangoes from Jharkhand is expected to serve as a catalyst for future agricultural exports from the State. It showcases the benefits of collaboration between government agencies, farmer organizations, and private exporters in creating sustainable market opportunities. As global demand for high-quality Indian horticultural products continues to grow, such initiatives have the potential to transform the livelihoods of farmers while enhancing India’s agricultural export footprint worldwide.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
