In a historic milestone for Odisha’s agricultural sector, the state’s prized mangoes have reached European markets for the first time, with shipments
In a historic milestone for Odisha’s agricultural sector, the state’s prized mangoes have reached European markets for the first time, with shipments landing in France, Belgium, and Italy in early June 2025. This achievement, celebrated by farmers across districts like Dhenkanal and Balangir, marks Odisha’s emergence as a growing agri-export hub. With nearly 100 metric tonnes of mangoes exported since May 2024, farmers are reaping 40–60% higher prices, thanks to direct market access and improved quality standards. Recent reports highlight this as a transformative moment for Odisha’s rural economy, driven by community-led initiatives and government support.
The breakthrough began with Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), particularly women-led groups, taking center stage. In Dhenkanal, the Saptasajya Farmer Producer Company and others exported 13.4 metric tonnes to London and Dubai in the first week of June, followed by shipments to France and Belgium. The Amrapali and Dashehari varieties, known for their sweetness and aroma, have captivated European buyers. Gitashree Padhi, Deputy Director of Horticulture in Dhenkanal, noted that the global acceptance of Odisha’s mangoes reflects the strength of its horticultural ecosystem. Posts on X echo this pride, with users calling it a “sweet victory” for local farmers.
Women farmers have been instrumental in this success, particularly through groups like the Baladevju Women Farmers Producer Company in Dhenkanal, which boasts over 1,000 shareholders and a ₹1 crore turnover. Supported by Grant Thornton Bharat and HDFC Bank’s Parivartan program, these women have mastered post-harvest techniques, ensuring mangoes meet stringent international standards. Training in harvesting, sorting, and packaging has eliminated reliance on middlemen, empowering farmers like Padmini Sahoo to secure higher returns. This focus on women’s empowerment aligns with Odisha’s Mission Shakti, which promotes rural economic growth, as emphasized by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida.
Government initiatives have been pivotal in scaling these exports. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Odisha’s Palladium Horticulture program have provided cold storage, plastic crates, and transportation subsidies. A proposed mango hub in Dhenkanal, backed by a 15-year MoU, aims to streamline processing and exports, ensuring consistent quality. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi praised the agriculture department and farmers for their efforts, noting that Odisha’s produce now competes in markets like Dubai, Rome, and Dublin. The state’s agro-climatic conditions, particularly in Dhenkanal, give its mangoes a distinctive flavor, making them a global favorite, according to horticulture experts.
The economic impact is profound. Farmers in Titilagarh, Balangir, exported 50 quintals to Europe and supplied 20 quintals to Mother Dairy in Delhi, fetching ₹70 per kg—a significant jump from local market prices. Supported by NABARD and the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society, these efforts have reduced distress sales and encouraged farmers to expand mango cultivation. However, challenges remain, including maintaining quality control and navigating logistics for long-distance exports. Some X users have called for more cold chain infrastructure to sustain this momentum.
Odisha’s mango exports complement its broader environmental and economic goals, such as planting 7.5 crore saplings and banning single-use plastics in forest zones. By integrating sustainable practices with agri-exports, the state is carving a niche in the global market. This success story, rooted in community resilience and policy support, positions Odisha as a model for other states aiming to globalize their agricultural produce.
As Odisha’s mangoes find their place on European tables, the state’s farmers celebrate not just financial gains but a newfound global identity. This milestone, driven by innovation, empowerment, and collaboration, heralds a bright future for Odisha’s bio-economy.
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