Odisha’s women farmers export green papaya to London

On International Women’s Day, Odisha achieved a key milestone in agricultural exports with the dispatch of 1 metric ton (MT) of premium Green Papaya from Dhenkanal to London. This shipment, facilitated via Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata, highlights Odisha’s growing presence in global fresh produce markets.

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On International Women’s Day, Odisha marked a significant milestone in its agricultural export journey as 1 metric ton (MT) of premium-quality Green Papaya from Dhenkanal was flagged off for export to London. This landmark shipment, facilitated through the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, underscores the growing potential of Odisha’s fresh produce in international markets.

The produce was cultivated by the dedicated women farmers of Saptasajya Agro Producer Company Ltd., a testament to their perseverance and commitment to quality farming. The initiative received robust support from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha; the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA); and Palladium Consulting India Pvt. Ltd.

Odisha’s Green Papaya is gaining traction in global markets due to its high nutritional value, unique taste, and cost-effectiveness. The virtual flag-off ceremony saw the participation of distinguished dignitaries, including Abhishek Dev, IAS, Chairman, APEDA; Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, IAS, Director of Horticulture, Government of Odisha; Bibhuti Bhushana Dash, IOFS, Special Secretary, Department of MSME, Odisha; Dr. Sudhanshu, Secretary, APEDA; and representatives from Palladium and the World Trade Centre Bhubaneswar.

Women farmers from Saptasajya Agro Producer Company Ltd. shared their experiences, highlighting the technical guidance provided by Palladium in post-harvest management and quality control. This support has played a crucial role in enabling their produce to meet global standards. Palladium’s expertise was previously instrumental in the successful export of Amrapali mangoes to London from Mahila Pragati Farmers’ Producer Company Ltd., an all-women Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) from Rayagada. To date, approximately 50 MT of fresh produce from Odisha’s FPOs has been exported with backing from the state government and APEDA.

Speaking at the ceremony, Abhishek Dev, IAS, Chairman of APEDA, emphasized the economic benefits of such exports. “Odisha’s fresh produce exports have resulted in a more than 40% increase in farmers’ income. APEDA remains committed to enhancing market linkages and strengthening infrastructure to facilitate the export of horticultural and organic products,” he stated.

Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, IAS, Director of Horticulture, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to bolstering agri-exports. “We recently conducted a stakeholders’ meet to strategize a roadmap for scaling up fresh produce exports,” he said, underscoring the government’s proactive approach.

Bibhuti Bhushana Dash, IOFS, Special Secretary, MSME, highlighted Odisha’s transition from being known for metal exports to emerging as a leader in fresh agricultural produce exports. He acknowledged Palladium’s role in driving this transformation and opening new opportunities for local farmers.

Amit Patjoshi, CEO of Palladium Consulting India, lauded the collaborative efforts that led to this achievement. “This export is a testament to the dedication of Odisha’s farmers. We remain committed to connecting FPOs with international markets to ensure better price realization and long-term economic growth,” he said.

With global demand for high-quality fresh produce on the rise, Odisha’s strategic push in agricultural exports is set to elevate its footprint in international markets. The success of this Green Papaya shipment reaffirms the potential of women-led FPOs in transforming the agricultural landscape while fostering economic empowerment and sustainability.