In a positive move for Indian agricultural exports, 30 metric tonnes (MT) of GI-tagged jaggery from western Uttar Pradesh have been exported to Bangladesh. The government announced this export milestone on January 30, 2025, during a flag-off ceremony organized by the Basmati Export Development Foundation (BEDF), which functions under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
This initiative marks the beginning of direct jaggery exports from western Uttar Pradesh to Bangladesh. The effort has been made possible through the active involvement of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs). These organizations aim to empower farmers by giving them direct access to international markets.
High Demand for Jaggery from Muzaffarnagar and Shamli
Prasanna Chaudhary, Shamli MLA, spoke about the exceptional quality of jaggery produced in Muzaffarnagar and Shamli districts. This jaggery has gained a strong reputation in international markets due to its rich taste and purity. Chaudhary also thanked APEDA for supporting farmers in exporting their products and stressed the need for continued backing from the state government to maintain international quality standards.
Empowering Farmers through Direct Exports
Dr. Ritesh Sharma, Joint Director of BEDF, explained that APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev’s vision focuses on strengthening FPOs and encouraging direct agricultural exports. This approach ensures that farmers benefit more by reducing middlemen and improving profitability.
One example of this success is the Brijnandan Agro Farmer Producer Company (FPC), which was established in 2023. It currently has 545 members, including two women directors, and is actively involved in exporting agricultural products such as jaggery, sugarcane products, Basmati rice, and pulses. With technical training and support from BEDF, the FPC has been able to meet international production and export standards.
Growing Agricultural Exports from Western Uttar Pradesh
This recent jaggery export adds to a growing list of successful exports by FPOs in western Uttar Pradesh. Previously, Neer Adarsh Organic Farmer Producer Co Ltd. exported Basmati rice to Lebanon and Oman in 2023 and 2024, with APEDA’s support.
The Brijnandan Agro FPC also stands out as the only FPO in Uttar Pradesh to receive financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh under the state’s Agri Export Policy. This financial backing has helped it enhance its operations and expand into international markets.
Strengthening India’s Agricultural Export Potential
The export of GI-tagged jaggery to Bangladesh is a significant milestone for India’s agricultural sector. By promoting exports of high-quality, GI-certified products, this initiative empowers farmers, boosts rural incomes, and enhances India’s global competitiveness. With continued government and institutional support, such efforts are expected to drive further growth in agricultural exports and create sustainable opportunities for farmers across the country.
Key Takeaways:
- Direct Export Boost: 30 MT of GI-tagged jaggery exported from Uttar Pradesh to Bangladesh.
- Empowering Farmers: FPOs and FPCs like Brijnandan Agro are playing a key role in international exports.
- Global Recognition: Jaggery from Muzaffarnagar and Shamli is gaining popularity in global markets due to its superior quality.
- Government Support: Financial assistance and training are helping FPOs meet export standards and grow their international presence.
- Sustainable Growth: The initiative is part of a larger strategy to enhance India’s agricultural export potential and support farmers.
