The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Karnataka’s Neelam and Totapuri mangoes to the Maldives, marking a significant milestone in expanding India’s premium mango exports and creating new international market opportunities for late-season varieties.
The inaugural consignment, flagged off on July 30, comprised one metric tonne of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes sourced directly from farmers associated with M/s Prakruthimaya Farmers Producer Company Ltd. in KGF Taluk of Karnataka’s Kolar district. The shipment was exported by M/s Ahalya Devi Ventures, led by director Ashwini A, a newly registered woman entrepreneur, highlighting the growing role of women-led enterprises in India’s agri-export sector.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev flagged off the consignment and said the initiative would strengthen global market access for Indian mangoes, create export opportunities for late-season varieties and contribute to sustainable income growth for farmers through organised supply chains.
The export has enabled farmers associated with the Farmer Producer Company (FPC) to earn over 50 per cent higher returns compared to conventional domestic marketing channels. Officials said the achievement demonstrates the benefits of direct procurement, export-oriented aggregation and stronger international market linkages in improving farmers’ incomes.
Neelam mangoes are known for their sweet, juicy pulp and rich aroma, making them popular for desserts, beverages and smoothies, while Totapuri mangoes are valued for their distinctive shape, sweet-tangy taste and suitability for both fresh consumption and processing. Harvested between late June and the end of July, the two varieties help extend India’s mango export season beyond the peak harvest period.
According to APEDA, the shipment also showcases the growing export potential of Karnataka’s horticulture sector and the important role played by Farmer Producer Companies in connecting growers with overseas buyers through quality assurance and organised aggregation.
The authority said it will continue working with state governments, exporters, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) and other stakeholders to strengthen export infrastructure, improve global market access and promote India’s premium horticultural produce in international markets.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the development in a post on X, saying the first-ever air shipment of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes from Karnataka to the Maldives would open new opportunities for the state’s mango growers. He said the initiative would encourage greater participation by Farmer Producer Organisations, exporters and agri-entrepreneurs while enhancing their presence in global markets.
