Farm In Form: Agri Exports From India Cross $9 Billion; An 8.9 Per Cent Rise From Last Year’s Rs 56,741 Crore

According to data released by APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority), farm exports from India surpassed the $9 billion mark for the April-September period, reports The Hindu BusinessLine.

APEDA is the apex agency in India tasked with promoting agricultural and food exports to overseas markets.

Despite lower volumes, total sales figures exceeded those of last years’, on account of realisation of higher prices in commodities like rice and buffalo meat. Also, due to the lower value of the rupee, export gains were visible since APEDA earned Rs 61,789 crore this year, an 8.9 per cent increase over last year’s Rs 56,741 crore.

Many agro-commodities displayed different trends. Though the volumes declined in Basmati rice exports, they were sold at higher prices. The reverse is true for pulses, fresh vegetables and dairy products.

Increased farm exports will form a significant part of the NDA government's ambitious target of doubling farmers’ incomes by 2022. It is not only important to produce more, but also to process and package food efficiently. In light of this, the government has announced the ‘Mega Food Park’ scheme. Under this, 42 food parks will be operationalised across the country that will ‘ link agricultural production to the market by bringing together farmers, processors and retailers to ensure maximising value addition.’

Also Read:

Ten Things That Are Wrong With India’s Agriculture

Tamil Nadu’s Grand Naine Bananas To Satisfy Italy’s Appetite