In a major achievement for the mango industry of Malda, the district administration in collaboration with ICAR-CISH KVK Malda and other key partners has successfully started the export of premium quality mangoes to the international markets. This has further strengthened the position of the district on the global horticulture map. A consignment of 1,500 kg of excellent quality Amrapali mangoes from Amritari, English market was sent for export to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Besides this, Lakhanbhog and other excellent export-worthy varieties grown under the GAP-based mango cluster were also sent to international destinations including Milan (Italy) and several countries in the Middle East. Overall, around 6 metric tonnes of mangoes have been exported.
It is worth noting that Malda district administration has started ‘Amaar Malda’ initiative, under which efforts are being made to bring all the activities related to mango on a single platform. These efforts are yielding good results. This success has been achieved under the GAP-based mango cluster initiative promoted by the district administration in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Malda of ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture (CISH).
Farmers associated with the cluster adopted scientifically proven ‘Good Agricultural Practices’ (GAP). These included bagging of fruits, integrated management of pests and diseases, balanced nutrient use, canopy management, orchard cleaning and better pre- and post-harvest handling. These methods ensured adherence to stringent international quality standards, making Malda mangoes competitive at the global level.
On this occasion, Ujjwal Saha, head of Malda Mango Merchant Association, said, this success in export shows the huge impact of scientific mango cultivation under the GAP protocol. Malda farmers have shown tremendous adaptability and commitment to quality production, which has opened new avenues for their products at the international level.
District Magistrate, Malda, IAS Rajanveer Singh Kapoor stressed the role of synergistic governance and farmer-centric initiatives. He said that this success is proof of what results institutional coordination can give at the ground level. The district administration is committed to promoting export-oriented farming and ensuring that our farmers get better market access and higher earning opportunities. Malda mangoes have huge potential globally, and we will continue to take forward such initiatives under ‘Amaar Malda’.
Dr Nayak, Scientist, ICAR-CISH KVK, Malda, said that through systematic training, field-level demos and continuous support, we have been able to help farmers meet the stringent export requirements and establish Malda mangoes as a reliable, premium product for global buyers.
This successful export initiative is a major step towards improving Malda’s export ecosystem, increasing farmers’ earnings and establishing the district as an important contributor to India’s agri-export growth story.
