The shipment of approximately 910 kg of drumsticks and pointed gourds from Rayagada District, Odisha, was dispatched to Dubai via Biju Patnaik International Airport. Sitakanta Mandal, regional director (east) of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), flagged off the consignment.
The drumstick, recognized for its nutritional value, is noted for its bioactive compounds due to Odisha's agro-climatic conditions. "The drumstick grown in Odisha is known for its high potency of bioactive compounds due to the region's unique agro-climatic conditions, which enhance its medicinal and nutritional properties. This quality makes it an ideal export commodity with significant demand in international markets," Mandal commented.
The export was organized by Swornajyoti Farmers Producer Company Ltd, an FPO from Rayagada, promoted by Harsha Trust and supported by NABARD, and facilitated by the Promotion and Stabilization of Farmer Producer Organisations (PSFPO). Odisha has exported over 52 tonnes of fresh produce, including various fruits and vegetables, from more than 20 FPOs statewide.
Efforts to boost agricultural exports include prioritizing cold storage infrastructure and logistics. The state offers up to 70% subsidy for climate-friendly, solar-powered cold storage. SK Talukdar, CGM of NABARD, emphasized the importance of matching products with international market demands, stating, "If quality is ensured, every vegetable and fruit from the state can be exported."
APEDA and Palladium, alongside the Agriculture and MSME departments, are aiding Odisha's fresh produce exports by providing support to FPOs to increase mango exports this season.
Source: New Indian Express