UP mango farmers set to reap higher profits through central govt’s new export initiative

Lucknow : Mango growers in Uttar Pradesh are set to receive higher prices for their produce, thanks to a promising new initiative by the Central Government. A pilot project is underway to expand the export of 20 selected fruits and vegetables, including mangoes, through sea routes, potentially opening up lucrative international markets.

With Uttar Pradesh as one of India’s top mango-producing states, this export push is expected to directly benefit the state’s farmers. Additionally, the Yogi government’s commitment to building state-of-the-art infrastructure for exporters ensures Uttar Pradesh is well-positioned to maximize this opportunity. By enhancing logistical support and meeting global standards, the government is paving the way for local produce to reach foreign markets seamlessly, promising a profitable future for UP’s mango cultivators.

Under the guidance of T. Damodaran, Director of the Central Institute of Subtropical Horticulture in Rehmankheda, Lucknow, efforts are ongoing to improve mango quality and create vibrant varieties to suit European tastes. New mango types like Ambika and Arunima have already been introduced, with Avadh Samridhi set to launch soon, followed by Avadh Madhurima. These varieties, designed for better export potential, are expected to greatly benefit UP’s mango growers.

To ensure high-quality produce, gardeners are being regularly informed through national and international seminars. Recently, a three-day seminar was jointly organized by India and Israel, focusing on advanced techniques in mango cultivation. Earlier, on September 21, an international seminar also took place, discussing strategies to boost mango yield and quality.

To meet the export standards of the US and Europe, the Yogi government plans to establish a radiation treatment plant near Jewar International Airport, a first of its kind for North India. Currently, such treatment facilities only exist in Mumbai and Bengaluru, where mango varieties like Alphonso and Bombay Green are treated before export. Without a local treatment facility, mangoes from North India must first be sent to these cities for radiation treatment, leading to increased costs and delays.

This new plant, to be set up under the PPP model, will treat fruits, vegetables, and grains by passing them through radiation, a process that eliminates germs and extends product shelf life, making them export-ready. With this facility, UP’s mango growers will have more accessible routes to the US and European markets, significantly benefiting from expanded export options.

The government is also developing expressways to speed up transport to export centers. The Purvanchal and Bundelkhand expressways are now operational, and the Gorakhpur link expressway is nearing completion. Additionally, CM Yogi has directed that work on the Ganga Expressway, connecting Meerut to Prayagraj, be completed ahead of the Mahakumbh.

To boost the yield and quality of mangoes from older orchards, the Yogi government has issued a government order encouraging the use of canopy management techniques. This method, endorsed by agricultural scientists, is expected to enhance both the productivity and quality of mangoes over time, making them more competitive in international markets.

The potential for mango exports, particularly to the US and Europe, is significant. During a recent international mango seminar at CISH Rehmankheda, Lucknow, Israeli scientist Yuvan Cohen emphasized the need for India to tailor its mango varieties to European preferences to maximize export opportunities.

Uttar Pradesh leads mango production in India, accounting for over one-third of the country’s total. However, India has yet to make a strong mark in global mango exports, with only a 0.52 percent share in the international market. In comparison, countries like Thailand, Mexico, and Brazil dominate with shares of 24 percent, 18 percent, and 11 percent, respectively. With such global demand, there is immense potential for India, and especially Uttar Pradesh, to increase its mango exports and tap into the expanding global market.

Last year, a delegation from Innova Food met with Agriculture Production Commissioner Devesh Chaturvedi, highlighting the demand for Uttar Pradesh’s Chaunsa and Lagada mangoes in the US and European markets. They noted that with adherence to export standards, these varieties could have substantial potential abroad. Both Chaunsa and Lagada are grown exclusively in Uttar Pradesh, making the region well-positioned to enter these markets if production aligns with international standards. The Yogi government is actively working to support growers in meeting these requirements.

Additionally, red varieties of mango have caught interest not only for their vibrant color but also for their health benefits. The pigment anthocyanin, responsible for the red color, enhances both taste and nutritional value. Research suggests that anthocyanin may help prevent obesity and diabetes, improve cognitive and motor functions, boost memory, and slow age-related neurological decline. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, red mango varieties bring considerable health advantages, adding appeal for consumers in global markets.