The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has inaugurated a new regional office in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, to strengthen agricultural exports and empower farmers. The office will focus on promoting GI-tagged rice varieties, fruits, vegetables, and minor forest produce, positioning the state as a major agri-export hub.
APEDA has expanded its presence with a new regional office in Raipur, inaugurated during the 2nd India International Rice Summit. The initiative aims to leverage Chhattisgarh’s rich agricultural ecosystem and connect farmers with global markets. With strong export potential in rice, fruits, vegetables, and forest produce, the office is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing farmer incomes and boosting India’s agri-export profile.
Key highlights from the announcement include
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The Raipur office was inaugurated to strengthen agricultural and processed food exports from Chhattisgarh.
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Chhattisgarh’s export potential includes premium non-basmati rice varieties and GI-tagged products such as Jeeraphool Rice and Nagri Dubraj Rice.
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The state also produces diverse fruits and vegetables including guava, banana, dragon fruit, jackfruit, custard apple, tomato, and cucumber.
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Minor forest produce such as mahua, tamarind, herbal and medicinal plants add to the state’s export opportunities.
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Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized the office’s mission to connect farmers with the global economy.
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Union Minister Piyush Goyal was credited for sanctioning the facility, reflecting central government support for agri-export growth.
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The initiative aligns with APEDA’s broader vision of promoting high-value and sustainable agricultural exports.
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The office will serve as a hub for training, capacity building, and facilitating export-oriented infrastructure.
The establishment of APEDA’s Raipur office is expected to empower farmers by providing them with access to international markets, better price realization, and opportunities to diversify crops. It also underscores the government’s commitment to positioning Chhattisgarh as a leader in sustainable and high-value agricultural exports.
By integrating local produce into global supply chains, the initiative will not only enhance farmer incomes but also strengthen India’s agricultural export competitiveness. The Raipur office is set to become a catalyst for innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth in the state’s agri sector.
Sources: The Hans India, NewKerala, Asianet Newsable