New Delhi, June 27 (UNI) In a significant boost to horticultural exports, India flagged-off the first consignment of one metric tonne of rose-scented litchi from Pathankot, to Doha, Qatar.
Additionally, a separate consignment of 0.5 metric tonne of litchi was also exported to Dubai, UAE from Pathankot, marking a twin export achievement and India’s growing presence in the global fresh fruit market, an official statement said.
The initiative was facilitated by Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry in association with the Department of Horticulture, Punjab Government, Lullu Group, and progressive farmer, Prabhat Singh from Sujanpur, who supplied the high-quality produce on June 23.
This milestone initiative underscores the excellence of India’s horticultural produce and highlights the country’s growing agri-export capabilities. It offers immense opportunities for farming communities by providing international market access for their fresh and high-value produce.
According to the National Horticulture Board, Punjab’s litchi production for FY 2023–24 stood at 71,490 metric tonnes, contributing 12.39 percent to India’s total litchi output. During the same period, India exported 639.53 metric tonnes of litchi. The area under cultivation was 4,327 hectares with an average yield of 16,523 kg/ha.
The flagged-off consignment, comprising a reefer pallet of premium Pathankot litchis, represents a major step forward for the region’s growers. The success of farmers like Prabhat Singh underscores the potential of Pathankot—which benefits from favourable agro-climatic conditions—as an emerging hub for quality litchi cultivation and exports.
Notably, during FY 2024–25 (April–March), India’s export of fruits and vegetables reached USD 3.87 billion, registering a 5.67 percent growth over the previous year. While mangoes, bananas, grapes, and oranges continue to dominate fruit exports, cherries, jamun, and litchis are now increasingly finding their place in international markets.
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