BHUBANESWAR: In a notable boost to women-led entrepreneurship and Odisha’s growing agri-export sector, Maa Kalijai Self-Help Group (SHG) from Angul district has exported 7.5 quintals of Amrapali mangoes to London.
The export marks a significant milestone for the rural women’s collective and highlights the increasing participation of SHGs in international markets, a space traditionally dominated by larger Farmer-Producer Organisations.
The initiative was supported by the Directorate of Horticulture under the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment through the Promotion and Stabilization of Farmer-Producer Organizations (PSFPO) project.
Marketing facilitation for the export was provided by Palladium Consulting, the implementation partner for the project. Mission Shakti and the Odisha Livelihoods Mission also played a key role in strengthening the SHG and enhancing its capabilities.
Palladium Consulting has been supporting Odisha’s agri-export ecosystem through awareness programmes, field demonstrations, exporter interactions, and coordination with farmers and producer organisations. The agency also facilitates procurement and provides handholding support to strengthen producer institutions and improve market access.
The achievement comes at a time when Odisha has already recorded 90 metric tonnes of mango exports this year through initiatives supported by the Directorate of Horticulture under the PSFPO project.
Officials said the export by Maa Kalijai SHG reflects the growing market readiness of rural women’s groups and their ability to meet quality standards required for international trade. The successful shipment to London demonstrates how grassroots collectives can move beyond local markets and participate in global value chains.
Members of the SHG described the export as a landmark moment for the group. Rupali Pradhan, a member of Maa Kalijai SHG, said the achievement had given the women confidence and proved that small community groups can reach international markets with the right support and opportunities.
Soumya Ranjan Sahoo, Agribusiness Expert at Palladium, said the export showcased how institutional support, capacity building, and coordinated interventions can help even small producer groups access global markets. He said the achievement sets a new benchmark for inclusive agri-exports in Odisha.
The development is being seen as an example of how women-led grassroots organisations are increasingly contributing to economic growth while expanding Odisha’s presence in international agricultural markets.
