The international demand for Dhenkanal's green papaya is expanding. Recently, one ton of green papaya, cultivated by 14 women farmers from the Saptasajya Agro Producer Company in the Sadar block of Dhenkanal district, was exported to London. Additionally, green papaya from the Ghatipiri area of the Odapada block was sent to Dublin, Ireland, via the Madan Mohan Cooperative Society.
This marks the inaugural export of green papaya from Dhenkanal outside India. Many of the women farmers involved belong to tribal communities. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated these exports, aiming to enhance economic opportunities for local farmers. Previously, Dhenkanal's mangoes were exported to Dubai, highlighting a growing demand for the region's fruits such as green papaya and mangoes.
Farmers have requested the activation of the abandoned mango hub and the fruit and vegetable preservation center along the national highway in Gobindpur under the Sadar block. Dhenkanal Deputy Director of Horticulture Gitashree Padhi confirmed the exports to London and Ireland, stating, "Green papaya from the district has been exported to London and Ireland for the first time through Saptasajya Agro Producer Company and the Madan Mohan Cooperative Society, with support from APEDA." She noted that these initiatives could potentially bolster the economic standing of farmers.
Source: OrissaPOST