New Delhi [India], August 10 (ANI): India has exported 1 metric tonne of mustard honey from Tripura to Dubai -- a move expected to help farmers associated with the Dergang Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) secure better price realisation than in local markets, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The export was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and the consignment was flagged off by Ratan Lal Nath, Agriculture Minister, Government of Tripura, the release said.

'APEDA facilitated the first-ever export of 1 Metric Tonne of Mustard Honey by Dergang Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) from Tripura to Dubai,' the release noted adding, 'The initiative is expected to encourage local farmers and FPOs to explore export opportunities and strengthen their participation in international agricultural markets.'

As per the release, the initiative was supported by M/s Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd., which has been working with Dergang FPO to strengthen beekeeping and develop an export-oriented honey supply chain. The collaboration has enabled the FPO to enter international markets while creating a structured avenue for farmers to participate in the export value chain.

The release further noted, Tripura's emerging agri-export ecosystem, particularly its honey and beekeeping sector along with its diverse agricultural base and growing network of organised farmer collectives offer significant potential to expand the production and export of quality honey and other agricultural products.

Ratan Lal Nath, said, 'The first-ever export of Mustard Honey by Dergang FPO is a significant achievement for Tripura's beekeepers and farmers. It demonstrates the potential of our local agricultural products to reach international markets and create better income opportunities for farming communities. The Government of Tripura remains committed to strengthening apiculture and organic agriculture while supporting Farmer Producer Organisations in accessing wider markets. With coordinated efforts by farmers, FPOs, exporters and institutions such as APEDA, Tripura can further expand its presence in the global market for quality agricultural and organic products.' (ANI)