New Delhi: In a major boost to India’s agricultural exports and the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, the first-ever export consignment of ODOP honey from Baksa district in Assam was flagged off for the US on Saturday.
The consignment, comprising 20 metric tonnes of honey, was exported through the initiative of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
The shipment was handled by Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd., an APEDA-registered exporter from the North Eastern Region, according to an official statement.
Officials said the export marks a significant milestone in integrating farmers and producers from Aspirational Districts into global agricultural value chains while strengthening India’s focus on value-added rural products.
Baksa honey has been identified under the ODOP initiative due to its strong potential for livelihood generation, branding, and export growth.
Known for its natural purity, floral diversity, and high nutritional value, the honey is sourced from eco-friendly and pesticide-free environments in the Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam.
The region has a long-standing tradition of beekeeping among indigenous communities, including the Karbi, Mishing, and Bodo tribes, where honey has historically been used for food, medicine, and cultural practices.
Major honey-producing districts in Assam include Baksa, Kokrajhar, Chirang, Udalguri, and Tamulpur.
According to data from the National Horticulture Board, Assam produced nearly 1,650 metric tonnes of honey during the financial year 2023-24.
Officials said APEDA supported the export initiative by facilitating infrastructure development and providing testing and laboratory equipment at the processing facility to ensure compliance with international food safety and quality standards.
The export initiative is expected to provide a major economic boost to local beekeepers and farmers, with producers likely to receive nearly 43% higher price realisation compared to prevailing local farm gate prices.
The development is also being seen as a significant step towards expanding export opportunities for niche agricultural products from India’s North Eastern Region.
