Lucknow: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaking at an event in Lucknow has said India must significantly enhance its fruit exports by improving quality, processing capacity, storage infrastructure, and supply chain efficiency to increase farmers’ incomes and generate employment opportunities.
Addressing the inaugural session of the two-day Fruit Horizon 2026 event in Lucknow, Chouhan said the initiative aims to strengthen fruit production and improve the overall quality of horticultural produce in the country.
He stated that India is among the leading producers of fruits such as mangoes, grapes, bananas, and litchis, with produce that meets global quality standards. However, despite this strength, the country’s fruit export potential remains underutilized.
Focus on Exports and Farmer Income
The Union Minister emphasized that increasing exports of fruits and vegetables would directly benefit farmers by raising their income while also contributing to foreign exchange earnings and employment generation.
“To achieve this goal, farmers, exporters, processors, and major institutions such as APEDA, MIDH, and ICAR have been brought together on one platform,” he said.
Chouhan noted that the conference has created an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss critical issues affecting the horticulture sector and explore practical solutions.
Key Challenges Discussed
During the event, participants held detailed discussions on several challenges facing the fruit export ecosystem, including:
- Increasing the shelf life of fruits
- Reducing freight and logistics costs
- Improving infrastructure facilities
- Expanding cold chain networks
- Strengthening transportation systems
- Establishing pack houses and ripening chambers
The minister said these issues are directly linked to the competitiveness of Indian produce in international markets.
Research Team Formed
Highlighting the importance of innovation and scientific support, Chouhan announced that a dedicated research team has been constituted to work on improving shelf life and related post-harvest technologies.
He said some issues would be resolved immediately through policy interventions, while others would require long-term research and technological advancement.
“We will take decisions based on discussions and research so that the interests of farmers and exporters are protected in the best possible manner,” he said.
The two-day Fruit Horizon 2026 summit is expected to witness participation from agricultural experts, exporters, researchers, food processing companies, and policymakers from across the country.
