Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo congratulated the women farmers of Dhenkanal for exporting 1 metric ton of premium-quality Green Papaya to London. This achievement was made possible with support from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, APEDA, and Palladium Consulting India Pvt Ltd.
Odisha’s Green Papaya has gained recognition in the export market for its high nutritional value, unique flavour, and cost-effectiveness. This initiative not only boosts the state’s agricultural exports but also empowers the women farmers of Saptasajya Agro Producer Company.
Taking to his X handle, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi wrote: “A proud moment for #Odisha as a group of tribal women farmers from Dhenkanal exported 1 ton of premium green papayas to London for the first time. This milestone has boosted farmers’ income by 40-62%, showcasing #Odisha’s strength in agri-exports.”
Praising the women farmers, Singh Deo wrote: “Thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievement of our women farmers from Dhenkanal, Odisha, who have successfully exported 1 metric ton of premium-quality Green Papaya to London. This milestone, supported by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, APEDA, and Palladium Consulting India Pvt. Ltd., highlights the dedication and hard work of our farmers. Odisha’s Green Papaya, known for its high nutritional value, unique flavor, and cost-effectiveness, has made a significant mark in the export market. This initiative not only boosts our agri-exports but also empowers our women farmers, ensuring better income and opportunities for them. Proud to witness the progress and commitment towards enhancing Odisha’s agricultural footprint in international markets. Congratulations to all involved!”
It won’t be wrong to say that women farmers from two villages in Dhenkanal are making their mark on the global stage. They have successfully exported one tonne of premium quality green papayas to London. This milestone marks the first-ever shipment by a Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) in Odisha to London.
As per reports, the Saptasajya Agro Producer Company, comprising 144 women farmers, cultivates green papayas on over 20 acres of land in the region. Known for its high-quality production, the region’s fertile soil and favourable climate make it an ideal location for growing a variety of crops.
Farm house owners revealed that they purchased the EXP15 variety of papaya saplings. Each papaya tree yields around 60 kg of papayas. The green papayas are harvested within a week of ripening and are always green in colour.
“Farmers occasionally notice papaya trees infected with diseases, hindering their growth. However, the EXP15 variety has proven to be highly resilient. The current year has seen a significant surge in demand for these papayas in the local market, with supplies being sent to various districts”, he said.
He continued: “With a market value of Rs 12, the Saptasajya Agro Producer Company has received an order for three quintals of green papayas, which were exported to the London market within four days.”
This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these women farmers, who have overcome numerous challenges to bring their produce to the global market.
