The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the ICAR-Indian Institute of Millet Research (ICAR-IIMR) to boost commercial production and exports of processable millets.
According to an official release, the MoU also calls for the establishment of market links with farmers as well as Farmer Producers Organizations (FPOs). To fulfill the aims outlined in the MoU, a joint coordination committee composed of APEDA and ICAR-IIMR officials will be formed.
ICAR-IIMR will profile millet producers or farmers in all main growing regions of the country, as well as enhance the seed supply chain. A Millet Export Promotion Forum would be established in conjunction with all relevant stakeholders, with the goal of finding export clusters to source significant quantities of product and connecting stakeholders with FPOs.
According to the release, the goal of the MoU is to create an export-centric ecosystem with the necessary supply chain links, technology repository, clinical research, awareness development, regulatory reforms, and a pipeline of entrepreneurs.
APEDA and ICAR-IIMR would collaborate to generate knowledge on market understanding, consumer preferences, growing segments, export competence, market price fluctuations, and market intelligence on standards, norms, and trade policies.
About APEDA
The Government of India established the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act, which was approved by Parliament in December 1985. The Authority was established in place of the Processed Food Export Promotion Council (PFEPC).
APEDA is in charge of promoting the export of fresh fruits and vegetables, processed foods, livestock products, and cereals. It serves as a vital link between farmers, warehouses, packers, exporters, surface transportation, ports, railways, airlines, and all those involved in export commerce, as well as the international market. It provides services that benefit farmers and exporters from many states around the country, either directly or indirectly. It bridges the gap between agricultural and processed food producers and international exporters.
