The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, has facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes from Karnataka to the Maldives. Flagged off on 30 July 2026, the export marks a significant milestone in promoting Karnataka's late-season mango varieties in international markets and further strengthening India's mango export basket.

The consignment was flagged off by Chairman, APEDA, Shri Abhishek Dev, IAS, who appreciated the collective efforts of the exporter, the Farmer Producer Company (FPC), farmers and all stakeholders involved in making the shipment possible. He noted that such initiatives enhance market access for Indian mangoes, create new export opportunities for late-season varieties and contribute to sustainable income growth for farmers.

The export consignment, comprising one metric tonne of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes, was sourced directly from farmers associated with M/s Prakruthimaya Farmers Producer Company Ltd., KGF Taluk, Kolar district, Karnataka. The shipment was exported by Mrs. Ashwini A, Director of M/s Ahalya Devi Ventures, a newly registered woman entrepreneur and exporter, highlighting the growing participation of women entrepreneurs in India's agri-export ecosystem.

Neelam mango is widely appreciated for its sweet, juicy pulp, rich aroma and suitability for desserts, smoothies and beverages. Totapuri mango is known for its distinctive shape, sweet-tangy flavour and versatility for both fresh consumption and processing. Harvested from late June to the end of July, these late-season varieties offer an opportunity to extend India's mango export season and cater to international demand beyond the peak harvest period.

The air shipment highlights the growing export potential of Karnataka's horticulture sector and demonstrates how Farmer Producer Companies are playing an important role in connecting farmers with global markets through organised aggregation, quality produce and export-oriented supply chains.

Farmers associated with the Farmer Producer Company realised over 50 per cent higher returns through this export initiative compared to conventional market channels. The achievement underscores the value of direct procurement, export market linkages and organised aggregation in enhancing farmers' incomes while encouraging wider adoption of export-oriented cultivation practices.

The export marks a new chapter in Karnataka's mango export journey and is expected to encourage greater participation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), exporters and agri-entrepreneurs in tapping international markets for premium horticultural produce.

APEDA continues to work closely with State Governments, exporters, Farmer Producer Organizations, Farmer Producer Companies and other stakeholders to strengthen export infrastructure, facilitate global market access and promote India's premium fruits in international markets. Such initiatives contribute to the diversification of India's agricultural exports while creating sustainable opportunities for farmers and the horticulture sector.

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Abhishek Dayal/ Garima Singh/ Ishita Biswas