In a major boost to India’s agri exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever air shipment of 350 kg of India’s GI-tagged Indi Lime from Vijayapura, Karnataka, and 150 kg of Puliyankudi Lime from Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu, to the United Kingdom on October 28, 2025. The 500 kg consignment marks a key milestone in taking India’s region-specific horticultural produce to global markets.
The flag-off ceremony saw participation from the Department of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka, the Karnataka Lime Board, and officials from Tamil Nadu. Chairman of APEDA, Abhishek Dev, led the event and lauded the collaborative effort, emphasizing that such initiatives promote India’s unique agricultural heritage and help farmers achieve better incomes through international branding. He reaffirmed APEDA’s commitment to supporting exporters and producers in scaling up exports of GI-tagged products that showcase India’s rich regional diversity.
V. Dakshinamoorthy, IAS, Agricultural Production Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Karnataka, noted that the successful export of the Indi Lime highlights the strong partnership between state and central agencies, exporters, and farmer groups. He described the initiative as a remarkable step toward promoting Karnataka’s horticultural excellence and connecting farmers to global markets.
The Indi Lime, cultivated mainly in Vijayapura district, is celebrated for its superior quality, zesty aroma, high juice yield, and balanced acidity. Beyond its culinary uses, it holds significance in traditional medicine and local cultural practices, symbolizing the agricultural richness of Karnataka.
Similarly, the Puliyankudi Lime, grown in the “Lemon City of Tamil Nadu” in Tenkasi district, is known for its thin peel, high acidity, and rich vitamin C content. The Kadayam variety, in particular, offers around 55% juice yield and notable antioxidant properties. The lime earned its Geographical Indication (GI) tag in April 2025, recognising its distinct regional and nutritional qualities.
This maiden export of Indi and Puliyankudi limes marks a significant achievement for India’s GI-tagged produce, strengthening the nation’s presence in premium fruit markets abroad.
First published on: 30 Oct 2025, 04:02 IST
