GUWAHATI: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has added 'Kaji Nemu' (Assam Lemon) and 'Urohi' (Flat Beans) to its list of 27 newly flagged-off export shipments, showcasing a diverse range of Indian agricultural products.
These exports, scheduled by APEDA, are destined for over 203 countries and territories worldwide in the current financial year.
To expand the export market, APEDA has implemented various initiatives, with a particular emphasis on products falling under the One District One Product (ODOP) and Geographical Indication (GI) categories. The organisation is actively exploring opportunities to source these exports from non-traditional regions or states.
APEDA is deeply involved in capacity-building programs for Farmers' Producers Organisations (FPOs), recognising their crucial role in aggregating farm produce, optimising supply chains, and ensuring efficient market access for farmers.
Recently, on February 14, the Assam government officially declared 'Kaji Nemu' as the state fruit. Also known as Assam Lemon and scientifically referred to as 'Citrus Lemon,' this distinctively aromatic lemon received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019. Assam Agriculture Minister Atul Bora highlighted the global recognition and increased demand for 'Kaji Nemu' due to its medicinal properties and unique aroma.
Bora while speaking to the media said, "The Assam Assembly took a decision to declare 'Kaji Nemu' as the state fruit, and I hope the House also supports this decision."
The export of 'Kaji Nemu' has witnessed a surge, with 70,000 pieces exported to various destinations, including London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar, in the last two years. Presently, it is cultivated on 15.90 hectares, producing 1.58 lakh metric tonnes, with commercial growth observed in areas like Baksa, Kamrup, Chirang, Kokrajhar, Goalpara, Morigaon, Nagaon, and Tinsukia in Assam. The lemon's presence was initially identified in Byrnihat and has since become a significant export commodity.