APEDA signs MoU with ICAR to Boost Citrus Exports

For boosting exports of citrus and its valued added products, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (ICAR-CCRI), Nagpur.

The MoU envisages promoting export by focusing on the creation of product-specific clusters along with the development of technologies by APEDA and ICAR-CCRI with a focus on precision farming.

The collaboration with two institutes of repute would focus on diversifying the export basket, destinations and boosting high-value agricultural products exports through establishing Brand India globally.

MoU Highlights:

The MoU states that product development works comprise of field digitization, efficient quality control measures (Sanitary and Phytosanitary), and the development of organic farms. APEDA and ICAR-CCRI would also organize capacity building for farmers, entrepreneurs, exporters and other stakeholders to promote agri-businesses and exports.

MoU which was signed recently at Nagpur at the presence of Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India and Dr. M. Angamuthu, Chairman, APEDA, aims at promotion and hand holding of Farmers Producer Organizations and Farmer Producer Companies and linking them with international markets.

According to MoU, APEDA and ICAR-CCRI would collaborate on developing climate-resilient agriculture, promoting GAP certification, block chain technologies and shaping business models around the needs of the farmers. The Development of export protocols for citrus especially the sea transport for long distance markets would be undertaken.

The MoU also aims at pursuing collaborative activities that enhance technology transfer and technical expertise of the university and strengthening existing laboratory facilities for testing as per requirement of importing countries and for obtaining NABL accreditation and APEDA recognition.

APEDA and ICAR-CCRI would also develop Standard Operating Procedure of citrus fruits for exports which would include pre and post-harvest management, Residue control, post-harvest interval, Shelf life development etc.