Dhenkanal's mangoes are poised to capture wider global markets this year, as Odisha officially launched its 2026 export season by dispatching the first consignment of premium Amrapali mangoes to London from the district this week.
A shipment of 3 metric tonnes (MT) of mangoes was exported under the supervision of the Directorate of Horticulture, facilitated through a coordinated effort involving farmer producer companies (FPCs), the Agriculture and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS).
A senior horticulture official described the shipment as a 'strong beginning' for Odisha's mango export ambitions. Last year, the state exported over 120 MT of mangoes to more than 11 countries, and authorities are now targeting exports exceeding 500 MT this season.
The initiative has generated fresh optimism among mango growers, many of whom now view exports as a stable and profitable market avenue.
An ORMAS official stated that more than 200 farmers, including women from various parts of Dhenkanal district, were engaged in the procurement and export process. Premium-quality Amrapali mangoes were collected from orchards across the district through farmer-producer companies (FPCs), ensuring uniform quality and timely supply for the international shipment.
Subal Jenamani, head of ORMAS, Dhenkanal, said, 'Special emphasis was laid on export-grade sorting, grading, and packaging to meet international quality standards. The mangoes were carefully packed using specialised packaging materials and handling procedures to maintain freshness during transit to London.'
'Training sessions and technical guidance were also provided to farmers and FPC members to ensure compliance with export protocol and post-harvest management practices,' Jenamani added.
Suresh Behera, a mango farmer from Hindol in Dhenkanal, expressed happiness that their mangoes are reaching an international market like London. 'Earlier, we depended only on local traders, but exports have helped us get better prices and confidence for the future,' he said.
Officials noted that the initiative has significantly improved farmer earnings, with price realisation increasing by nearly 72% compared to local market sales. The export was undertaken by Madanamohan Farmer Producer Cooperative Society Limited and DKL Innovative Farmer Producer Company Limited.
Sitakanta Mandal, regional head of APEDA, emphasised the need for continuous sensitisation with experts. 'FPCs need continuous learning and preparedness to meet international market requirements and build long-term credibility,' he said.
