The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has made a significant contribution to the marketing and export of almost 500 startups' millet-based value-added products, marking a noteworthy advancement in this regard. Dilpreet Singh, a farmer hailing from Sangrur, has become a shining example of this transformative initiative, transitioning from a local farmer to an exporter. Marking a significant milestone, Dilpreet Singh successfully exported his first consignment, comprising 14.3 metric tonnes of millets and their associated products, with a commendable value of USD 45,803.
The flag-off ceremony was graced by the presence of Abhishek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, who symbolically initiated the consignment.
Diverse Millet Products in the Export Shipment
The exported shipment is a testament to the rich diversity of millet-based products, including ready-to-cook millets sourced from Kodo millet, Foxtail millet, Little millet, Browntop millet, and Barnyard millet. Furthermore, the consignment includes flours derived from Ragi, Jowar, Bajra, Foxtail, Kodo, Barnyard, Browntop, Little, and Proso millets, showcasing the versatility and scope of millet processing.
A Collaborative Effort: APEDA's Support Acknowledged
Jasvir Singh, the importer based in Sydney, expressed his gratitude towards APEDA for its unwavering support in facilitating this collaboration. He participated in the virtual flag-off ceremony and conveyed optimism about expanding business opportunities. Singh affirmed his commitment to importing more such consignments in the future.
Complete Value Chain Control: Farmer's Key to Success
Dilpreet Singh's success story highlights the importance of complete value chain control, a prerequisite for buyers in the international market. Singh not only cultivates millets on his own farms but also oversees primary and secondary processing in his own unit, ensuring international-quality packaging.
Millet Exports on the Rise: A Global Trend
The success of Dilpreet Singh mirrors a larger trend in the agricultural sector, showcasing how local farmers can become key contributors to agri-export. The increasing popularity of millet exports is evident in the numbers, with a surge from USD 62.95 million in 2021-22 to USD 75.45 million in 2022-23. The current export figure stands at USD 45.46 million from April to November 2023, reflecting a 12.4% growth in the export of cereal preparations, including value-added millet products over the same period last year.
The growing success of millet exports not only signifies a financial boost for farmers but also empowers them to venture into international markets.
