ICAR-CISH–APEDA Sea Route Protocol Enables Successful Export of 12.5 Tonnes of Dashehari and Langra Mangoes to Dubai

Why in news

Successful export of 12.5 tonnes of Dashehari and Langra mangoes from Uttar Pradesh to Dubai via a sea route protocol developed by ICAR-CISH and APEDA, demonstrating a new viable export channel for Indian fruits.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, Science & Technology, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. 12.5 tonnes of Dashehari and Langra mangoes were exported from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, to Dubai.
2. The export utilized a sea route protocol jointly developed by ICAR-CISH and APEDA.
3. The protocol involved scientific post-harvest management, including METWASH treatment for shelf-life extension.
4. The consignment was transported in a 40-foot reefer container under a continuous cold chain.
5. The harvest-to-market transit period was 25 days, with nearly 90% of mangoes found in good marketable condition upon arrival.

Prelims pointers

• ICAR-CISH (Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture) is involved in developing post-harvest management techniques for fruits.
• APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) facilitates agricultural exports.
• METWASH is a treatment developed by ICAR-CISH to extend the shelf life of fruits.
• Sea route export using reefer containers and cold chains is being explored for perishable goods.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of developing alternative export routes and scientific post-harvest management techniques for enhancing India's agricultural exports, citing the recent successful sea route export of mangoes to Dubai as a case study.

Static linkage

This development is linked to India's efforts to boost agricultural exports, improve post-harvest management techniques, and leverage international trade agreements. It also highlights the role of institutions like ICAR-CISH in developing scientific solutions for agricultural produce and APEDA in facilitating market access and export promotion.

Significance

The successful sea route export of mangoes signifies a potential breakthrough in reducing logistics costs and transit times for perishable agricultural products compared to air freight. It opens up new market access opportunities in regions like the Middle East, potentially increasing farmer incomes and foreign exchange earnings. The protocol's emphasis on scientific handling and shelf-life extension can also improve the quality and competitiveness of Indian mangoes in the global market.