Bengaluru: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) on Thursday facilitated the export of a 1-metric-tonne consignment of GI-tagged Gulbarga Tur Dal from Karnataka to the Maldives, in a move aimed at expanding overseas markets for the region’s signature agricultural product.
The consignment, flagged off on September 24, was exported by Mysuru-based Silken Global Exports and Imports through its FPO-led brand and will be transported to the Maldives by sea.
Farmers to get higher price realisation
A key feature of the export-linked value chain is the higher price realised by farmers. While the prevailing market price is around ₹60 per kg, farmers are expected to realise ₹82 per kg through the export channel — over 30% higher than the prevailing price.
APEDA said the initiative would also enable Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to participate more closely in export-oriented value chains and establish direct links with international markets.
GI tag boosts global identity
Gulbarga Tur Dal, associated with the Kalaburagi region, received its Geographical Indication (GI) registration in 2019. Known for its distinctive taste and quality, the dal is an important part of the region’s agricultural economy.
Kalaburagi is one of Karnataka’s major centres of tur cultivation, with pulses playing a significant role in the state’s dryland agriculture and rural economy.
APEDA chairman Abhishek Dev said taking GI-tagged agricultural products to international markets would help strengthen market linkages for farmers and build global recognition for region-specific produce.
The latest shipment is also expected to pave the way for regular exports of Gulbarga Tur Dal to the Maldives, potentially creating sustained market opportunities for farmers, FPOs and exporters in Karnataka.
Senior APEDA officials and industry representatives, including senior consultant Dr Tarun Bajaj, general manager Vinita Sudhanshu, KSPAML managing director V. Sadashiva and Imran Pasha of Silken Global Exports and Imports, were present at the flag-off.
The initiative is part of APEDA’s efforts to promote GI-tagged and value-added agricultural products in international markets.