Odisha farmers export Green Papaya and Colocasia to Ireland, boosting global reach

Bhubaneswar, Sep 24 (UNI) Odisha has marked another milestone in its agriculture sector with the successful export of 320 kg of green papaya and 100 kg of colocasia from Dhenkanal to Ireland via Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata.

The achievement was made possible under the leadership of the Directorate of Horticulture, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, with support from the Gates Foundation and coordination by Palladium.

Dhenkanal-based Saptasajya Agro Producer Company, a farmers’ collective, spearheaded the export, showcasing the strength of small farmers working together.
The organisation has been consistently striving to strengthen the agricultural economy of Odisha by ensuring fair prices for farmers’ produce and promoting state-grown crops in the global market.
For the first time, high-quality colocasia joined papaya in the export consignment, further broadening Odisha’s global footprint in horticultural produce.
Officials said this initiative is not merely about trade, but about providing a global platform to the aspirations of Odisha’s farmers.

Since 2024, over 140 metric tons of fresh fruits and vegetables from Odisha have been exported to 10 international markets under Palladium’s guidance and the Agriculture Department’s leadership.

Farmers involved in these exports have received 40 per cent to 62 per cent higher value for their produce.
According to officials, such initiatives will help ensure fair prices, promote self-reliance among farmers, and enhance Odisha’s position in international agricultural markets.