GUWAHATI: The first-ever export consignment of honey from Assam’s Baksa district was flagged off to the United States on Friday, May 8, marking a major boost to India’s agricultural exports and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.
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The export initiative, facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), marks a significant milestone for farmer-led exports from the Northeast and highlights the growing global demand for region-specific agricultural products from India.
The consignment, comprising around 20 metric tonnes of honey, was exported through APEDA-registered exporter Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd.. The honey was processed and packed at the company’s facility in Guwahati before being shipped to the United States.
Baksa district, located in Assam’s Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), has been identified under the Government of India’s ODOP initiative for its high-quality honey, known for its natural purity, rich floral diversity and medicinal value. The honey is sourced from eco-friendly and pesticide-free environments, reflecting the biodiversity and sustainable agricultural practices of the region.
Assam has a long tradition of beekeeping and honey collection among indigenous communities such as the Karbi, Mishing and Bodo tribes. Major honey-producing districts in the state include Baksa, Kokrajhar, Chirang, Udalguri and Tamulpur. According to the latest data from the National Horticulture Board, Assam produced nearly 1,650 metric tonnes of honey during the financial year 2023-24.
The export is expected to significantly benefit local beekeepers and farmers, with producers receiving nearly 43 per cent higher price realisation compared to current local farm gate prices. The initiative is also expected to strengthen rural livelihoods and provide sustainable market access for farmers in aspirational districts.
APEDA supported the export by helping develop infrastructure and providing testing and laboratory equipment at the processing facility to ensure compliance with international food safety and quality standards.
The ceremonial flag-off event was attended by senior officials including Aruna Rajoria, Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Assam Agriculture Department and Agriculture Production Commissioner, Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, and Virendra Mittal, State Project Director of ARIAS Society, among others.