Assam Exports First International Consignment of Purabi Ice Cream to Bhutan

Why in news

Assam has exported its first international consignment of Purabi Ice Cream to Bhutan, marking a significant milestone for the state's dairy sector and processed food exports from the North Eastern Region.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, International Relations · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Assam has exported its first international consignment of Purabi Ice Cream to Bhutan.
2. The consignment contained 5,627 litres of Purabi Ice Cream.
3. The export was flagged off by Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati.
4. The ice cream is manufactured by West Assam Milk Producers' Cooperative Union Limited (WAMUL) and marketed by North East Dairy and Foods Limited (NEDFL).
5. The milk for Purabi Ice Cream is procured through Purabi Dairy's cooperative network of farmers across Assam.
6. The consignment includes cups, family packs, cones, and gallon packs.
7. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is involved.

Prelims pointers

• First international export of Purabi Ice Cream from Assam to Bhutan.
• Key entities involved: NEDFL, WAMUL, Purabi Dairy.
• APEDA's role in promoting agricultural exports.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of Assam's first international ice cream export to Bhutan in the context of India's Act East Policy and the economic development of the North Eastern Region.

Static linkage

This development relates to India's 'Act East Policy' which aims to promote economic, strategic, and cultural relations with the ASEAN region and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. It also highlights the growth of the dairy sector and food processing industry in India, particularly in the North Eastern Region, which is a focus area for economic development.

Significance

This export signifies a step towards enhancing the processed food export potential of Assam and the North Eastern Region. It opens new markets for value-added dairy products, potentially boosting the income of local dairy farmers and contributing to the region's economic growth. It also strengthens trade relations with neighbouring countries like Bhutan and promotes the 'Make in India' initiative in the food processing sector.