Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Mr. Piyush Goyal stated that India’s agriculture and fisheries exports have reached Rs. 4,50,000 crore (US$ 52.58 billion) and have the potential to grow to Rs. 20,00,000 crore (US$ 233.67 billion) with a stronger focus on food processing, branding, and packaging. He highlighted the expansion of India’s export basket to include non-traditional items such as jamun, litchi, pineapple, and bottle gourd, with jamun recently exported to the UK and litchis from Punjab reaching Doha and Dubai. He also noted the growing presence in Gulf markets and the global recognition of Indian millets due to the International Year of Millets initiative.
He emphasised the importance of building a resilient agricultural supply chain and promoting water conservation through drip irrigation and energy-efficient pumps. He pointed out that these technologies can reduce input costs, improve sustainability, and boost productivity. The government is also supporting organic farming with blockchain-based certification, enhancing packaging and design, and strengthening infrastructure through initiatives like e-NAM, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, and the Drone Didi programme. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing farmers’ income and ensuring self-reliance in agriculture.
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