APEDA facilitates first-ever air shipment of Karnataka's Neelam and Totapuri mangoes to the Maldives

New Delhi: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes from Karnataka to the Maldives, marking a significant step in expanding export opportunities for India's late-season mango varieties.

The one metric tonne consignment was flagged off on July 30 by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev. The shipment was sourced directly from farmers associated with Prakruthimaya Farmers Producer Company Ltd. in Kolar district and exported by Ahalya Devi Ventures, a firm led by woman entrepreneur Ashwini A.

According to APEDA, the initiative enabled farmers linked to the Farmer Producer Company (FPC) to realise more than 50 percent higher returns compared with conventional domestic marketing channels, demonstrating the benefits of direct export market linkages and organised aggregation.

Neelam and Totapuri are among Karnataka's prominent late-season mango varieties. While Neelam is known for its sweet pulp and rich aroma, Totapuri is widely used for both fresh consumption and processing due to its distinctive shape and sweet-tangy flavour. Harvested between late June and the end of July, the two varieties help extend India's mango export season beyond the peak harvest months.

APEDA said the shipment highlights the growing export potential of Karnataka's horticulture sector and the increasing role of Farmer Producer Companies in connecting growers with international buyers through quality produce and export-oriented supply chains.

The authority noted that expanding exports of late-season varieties can help diversify India's mango export basket while creating new income opportunities for farmers. It also reflects the growing participation of women entrepreneurs in the country's agricultural export ecosystem.

According to APEDA, the successful shipment is expected to encourage greater participation of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies, exporters and agri-entrepreneurs in tapping premium overseas markets for horticultural produce.

The authority said it will continue working with state governments, exporters and farmer organisations to strengthen export infrastructure, improve global market access and promote Indian fruits in international markets.