Koraput: In a significant step towards enhancing market access for local farmers, a total of 45 metric tons of ginger were dispatched from Koraput to Punjab and Raipur on Saturday.
The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with Pragati, Koraput and Jaivik Shri Krishak Producer Company Limited, aims to ensure better pricing and economic growth for ginger farmers in the region.
The consignment, transported via two trucks, comprised 15 metric tons sent to Punjab and 30 metric tons to Raipur. The flag-off event was organized at the Skill Development Center of Pragati in Dayanidhiguda village, Koraput Block.
Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment (DAFE), graced the occasion as the chief guest and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in securing fair prices for farmers’ produce.
“Today, we visited this unit of Jaivik Shri Krishak Producer Company. The Koraput Collector, Director of Horticulture, and officials from Pragati NGO have accompanied me. This is a commendable unit. Value addition will benefit both farmers and traders. The district administration and our department will provide necessary assistance for processing,” said Dr. Padhee while addressing reporters.
During his visit, Dr. Padhee inspected the ginger processing unit and other agricultural projects at the Skill Development Center. He also engaged with local ginger farmers, assuring them of further support in expanding market access for high-quality coffee and ginger produced in the district.
In addition, the DAFE Principal Secretary announced plans to establish more cold storage facilities in the Kotia region to support strawberry and vegetable farming, ensuring better preservation and improved market reach for perishable produce.
Among the dignitaries present at the event were K. Pavan Kalyan, Director of Horticulture; Koraput Collector V Keerthi Vasan; Prabhakar Adhikari, Secretary of Pragati; and several organic farmers.
