Ranchi: A consignment of locally grown Amrapali mangoes from Simdega was dispatched to London on Friday, with officials claiming this was the first such export from the district.
Initiative and Procurement
The initiative, made possible through the convergence of MGNREGA and the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS) under the Birsa Harit Gram Yojana, involves the export of 1,322 kg of the premium mangoes. These were procured directly from local women farmers at a bulk rate of Rs 42 per kg, higher than the prevailing local retail price of Rs 38-40 per kg.
Role of Farmer Producer Companies
The Mahila Jagriti Farmer Producer Company Limited from Sadar block and the Beura Farmer Producer Company Limited from Bano block, set up with the help of JSLPS, played pivotal roles in mobilising the harvest. The entire export process is being carried out under the monitoring and support of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (Apeda).
Official Statements
Simdega deputy commissioner Kanchan Singh said, “It is a matter of pride for the district that Amrapali mangoes produced by Simdega’s farmers, particularly women farmer producer groups, have reached the international market. This achievement is the result of the farmers’ hard work, quality production and collective efforts,” she stated. Singh added that exporting at a better price will significantly boost farmer incomes and unlock new global avenues for other agricultural produce from the district.
Impact on Farmers
For the farmers, the export is a life-changing event. Shanti Lugun, a woman farmer from Jamang village in Bano block whose harvest was included in the consignment, said, “Earlier, I used to grow mangoes but could not get a good market. With the help of the district administration and JSLPS, my mangoes will directly reach international markets and I am getting a good price. This initiative has helped farmers like myself gain recognition and earn better.”
Empowerment of Women Farmers
The DC said that women farmers are gaining access to global markets and achieving better price realisation for their produce. “Beyond enhancing incomes, these initiatives are expanding their exposure, strengthening entrepreneurial capabilities and driving the economic and social empowerment of rural women,” Singh said.
