Odisha government is taking a significant step towards expanding the reach of its mangoes from the Dhenkanal district onto the global market. The Government, collaborating with a Non-Governmental Organisation, inked a 15-year agreement on Monday aimed at promoting the distinctive Dhenkanal mangoes internationally.

The ambitious agreement was finalised during a ceremony at Lok Seva Bhawan, by Deputy CMs KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, in the presence of Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra.

Additionally, a separate agreement under Mission Shakti will facilitate the export of various other produce from the State to abroad.

Mango hub proposed in Dhenkanal

“Two MoUs (Memorandums of Understanding) have been signed. One is for the export of mangoes to international markets from a proposed mango hub in Dhenkanal, for 15 years. Another MoU was signed with them (the party concerned) for the export of fruit products from Odisha to other countries through Mission Shakti,” Deputy CM KV Singh Deo said.

“It is an auspicious day for all of us that MoUs were inked to export agricultural products of our State. Mission Shakti department has been striving to strengthen the roles of women and this (tie-ups) will help focus district-based produce. The step will play a pioneering role in women's empowerment,” Deputy CM Pravati Parida stated.

This initiative represents a strategic push to introduce Odisha's agricultural produce to the foreign markets and is expected to economically benefit local farmers by showcasing their premium-quality mangoes and other produce on a world stage.

Worth mentioning, in a landmark achievement for local agriculture, over a tonne of prized papaya from Dhenkanal district was recently shipped to London and Ireland, marking its first foray into these international markets.

This export has opened up new avenues for the local farmers, with Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Majhi expressing his excitement on social media and applauding the agriculture department's efforts.