In a milestone for Punjab’s agricultural exports, the famed litchi of Pathankot has ventured beyond Indian shores to grace the markets of London. This marks the first time that this delicious fruit, renowned for its exceptional quality and taste, will be available internationally.
A consignment weighing 10 quintals was recently exported through the cargo facility at Amritsar’s Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, facilitated by the Punjab Horticulture Department in collaboration with APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority). This initiative aims to showcase Pathankot’s litchi on a global platform, opening avenues for its marketing and sale abroad.
Shailender Kaur, Director of Horticulture for Punjab, emphasized the state government’s pivotal role in bridging the gap between litchi producers and exporters. “This effort not only highlights the superior quality of Pathankot litchis but also signifies a significant step towards enhancing farmers’ incomes and promoting sustainable agricultural practices,” she remarked.
Pathankot, with its sub-mountainous terrain, high humidity, and favorable soil conditions, is ideally suited for litchi cultivation. It accounts for 60% of Punjab’s litchi production, with approximately 48 trees per acre yielding substantial harvests from June to July each year.
Dr. Jatinder Kumar, the state’s nodal officer for the litchi project, outlined the economic potential of this endeavor. “Initially an experimental export, the litchis are expected to fetch around Rs 500 per kg in London, compared to Rs 100 per kg in India,” he explained. This ambitious pricing reflects the high demand and premium quality associated with Pathankot litchis.
The move is part of Punjab’s broader strategy to diversify agricultural practices beyond water-intensive crops like paddy and wheat, aiming to conserve groundwater and bolster farmer incomes. “Exporting litchis is just the beginning,” Dr. Kumar added. “Future plans include exporting other crops like kinnow and guava, replicating this success.”
With nearly 2,200 hectares dedicated solely to litchi production in Pathankot, efforts are underway to scale up production and secure more international markets. Already popular domestically in cities like New Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, the export to London marks a significant leap towards global recognition.
As Punjab continues to innovate in agriculture, initiatives like these not only promise economic benefits but also reinforce its reputation as a hub of agricultural excellence. The journey of Pathankot litchis to London is not just a shipment of fruit; it’s a testament to Punjab’s agricultural prowess and its commitment to sustainable growth.
