Bengaluru, India – In a significant move to expand India’s agricultural export reach, Karnataka has successfully exported its first-ever air shipment of Totapuri and Neelam mangoes to the Maldives. The consignment, comprising one metric tonne of the late-season varieties, was flagged off on July 30, 2026, marking a new international market for the state’s premium fruit.
APEDA Facilitates Historic Export
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, facilitated this groundbreaking export. The initiative aims to promote Karnataka’s late-season mangoes in overseas markets and bolster India’s overall mango export basket.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the consignment was sourced directly from farmers associated with the Prakruthimaya Farmers Producer Company Ltd. in the Kolar district of Karnataka. This direct sourcing highlights a growing trend of organized aggregation and export-oriented supply chains connecting farmers to international buyers.
Empowering Farmers and Women Entrepreneurs
The export was managed by Ahalya Devi Ventures, a newly registered woman entrepreneur, Ashwini A, underscoring the increasing participation of women-led businesses in India’s agri-export sector. This milestone shipment not only opens new avenues for farmers but also showcases the entrepreneurial spirit of women in agriculture.
According to APEDA officials, farmers associated with the Farmer Producer Company (FPC) involved in this export realized over 50 percent higher returns compared to conventional domestic market channels. This demonstrates the tangible benefits of direct procurement and stronger international market linkages in enhancing farmers’ incomes.
Extending Mango Season and Market Access
The Neelam mango is renowned for its sweet, juicy pulp and rich aroma, making it ideal for desserts, beverages, and fresh consumption. The Totapuri variety, characterized by its distinctive shape and sweet-tangy taste, is highly valued for both fresh consumption and food processing. Harvested between late June and the end of July, these late-season varieties are crucial for extending India’s mango export season beyond the peak period, thereby meeting sustained international demand.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal congratulated APEDA for facilitating this export, noting that it unlocks new opportunities for Karnataka’s mango growers. He emphasized that this achievement would encourage greater participation from Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), exporters, and agri-entrepreneurs, thereby strengthening their presence in international markets.
Kolar District’s Contribution
Kolar district, a region in Karnataka known for its significant mango cultivation, has been a key source for this export. Despite recent challenges faced by Totapuri mango farmers in the district due to price fluctuations, this export initiative offers a potential boost to their economic prospects.
The success of this air shipment underscores the collaborative efforts between farmers, producer companies, exporters, and governmental bodies like APEDA in developing robust export infrastructure and improving global market access for India’s horticultural produce.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
