APEDA facilitates first-ever air export of Karnataka’s Neelam, Totapuri mangoes to Maldives

New Delhi: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Karnataka’s Neelam and Totapuri mangoes to the Maldives, marking a significant milestone in expanding export opportunities for the state’s late-season mango varieties.

The one-metric-tonne consignment, flagged off on July 30, was sourced directly from farmers associated with Prakruthimaya Farmers Producer Company Ltd. in KGF Taluk of Kolar district. The shipment was exported by Ashwini A, Director of Ahalya Devi Ventures, a newly registered woman entrepreneur, highlighting the increasing role of women in India’s agri-export sector.

APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev said the initiative would strengthen global market access for Indian mangoes, create new export opportunities for late-season varieties and contribute to sustainable income growth for farmers.

According to APEDA, farmers linked to the Farmer Producer Company earned more than 50 per cent higher returns through the export compared to conventional domestic markets. The achievement demonstrates the benefits of direct procurement, organised aggregation and international market linkages in improving farmers’ incomes.

Neelam mangoes are known for their sweet, juicy pulp and rich aroma, while Totapuri mangoes are popular for their distinctive shape and sweet-tangy flavour, making them suitable for both fresh consumption and processing. Since these varieties are harvested between late June and the end of July, they help extend India’s mango export season beyond the peak harvest period.

Maldives to relish Karnataka’s finest mangoes! 🥭

Kudos to @APEDADOC for facilitating the first-ever air shipment of Neelam and Totapuri mangoes from Karnataka to the Maldives.

This milestone unlocks new opportunities for Karnataka’s mango growers, encouraging greater… pic.twitter.com/CUBBHx7hHj

— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) July 30, 2026

The Commerce Ministry said the successful shipment is expected to encourage greater participation of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), exporters and agri-entrepreneurs in international horticultural trade.

APEDA said it will continue working with state governments and industry stakeholders to strengthen export infrastructure, expand global market access and promote premium Indian agricultural produce worldwide.