Malda’s ‘Aamar Malda’ initiative is a success as the district has exported nearly six metric tonnes of its famous mangoes to Europe and West Asia, marking a boost for local farmers and strengthening its presence in global markets.
The 'Aamar Malda' initiative is helping the district's famous mangoes get global recognition. The district administration is working with top bodies like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Central Institute of Subtropical Horticulture (CISH), and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), along with the state horticulture department. Their main goal is to promote scientific farming, build a strong brand, and create new markets for Malda's mangoes.
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The first shipment
According to the district administration, the first shipment included Lakshmanbhog and other premium mango varieties. Farmers grew these mangoes in special clusters following 'Good Agricultural Practices' (GAP). These mangoes are headed to Milan in Italy and several Middle Eastern countries. On top of this, another 1,500 kg of high-quality Amrapali mangoes were exported to the UAE, bringing the total for the first phase to nearly six metric tonnes.
Malda's mangoes are regularly exported to countries like Scotland, Britain, the UAE, and Bhutan. Samanta Layek, the Deputy Director of the state's Horticulture Department in Malda, shared some great news. 'Last year, with help from international exporters, we sent about 15 metric tonnes of mangoes to these countries. The feedback we got from buyers was extremely positive,' he said. He also mentioned that this year, they expect to export around 250 to 300 metric tonnes to Europe and Asia.
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New initiative boosts mango exports
Earlier this month, the district administration and CISH launched the official 'Aamar Malda' logo. They also started a special web portal to brand and market the mangoes worldwide and boost tourism. The project brings everyone together, from the Malda Mango Merchants’ Association (MMMA) to APEDA and ICAR. Farmers now get training in 'Good Agricultural Practices' (GAP), so they can grow mangoes without harmful chemicals. As a result, orders from international markets are pouring in.
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‘Aamar Malda’ set for further expansion
District Magistrate Rajanvir Singh Kapur said this success reflects the great teamwork between various institutions. 'This is a great example of what we can achieve on the ground through proper coordination,' he stated. He stressed that the administration is committed to boosting agricultural exports and ensuring farmers get better market access and higher incomes. 'Malda's mangoes have huge potential globally, and we will expand such initiatives under the 'Aamar Malda' programme,' he added.
