Honey from Baksa district of Assam has now reached America. For the first time, honey from the aspirational district of Assam, Baksa, has been exported to America under the One District One Product i.e. ODOP scheme of the Government of India. This is considered a big achievement for India’s agricultural exports and the North-Eastern region.
20 metric tons of honey sent to America
This consignment of about 20 metric tons of honey was dispatched on 9 May. This export was completed on the initiative of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority i.e. APEDA. Export work Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd. Ltd., which is a registered exporter with APEDA. This honey was prepared and packed in the processing unit of the company located in Guwahati, after which it was sent to America.
Huge potential for honey production in Assam
According to the state government, Assam has great potential for honey production due to its dense forests, rich biodiversity and traditional beekeeping. Here tribes like Karbi, Mishing and Bodo have been collecting honey for centuries. In these communities, honey has been used for food, medicine and religious traditions.
Baksa, Kokrajhar, Chirang, Udalguri and Tamulpur districts of Assam are considered big centers of honey production. About 1,650 metric tons of honey was produced in Assam in FY 2023-24.
Why is box honey special?
The honey of Baksa district is procured from eco-friendly and pesticide-free areas. It is in great demand due to its purity, variety of flowers and nutritional properties. The government has included it in the ODOP scheme so that local farmers and beekeepers can get more benefits.
Focus on increasing farmers’ income
The government says that this export will greatly benefit local farmers and beekeepers. They are expected to get about 43% more price than the local market. This will increase both employment and income in rural areas.
Big achievement for North East India
This initiative shows that agricultural products from North-East India are now making their mark in the global market. Experts believe that this will also boost the export of other special agricultural products of the region.
