In a landmark step for Uttarakhand’s farmers, the first trial shipment of Garhwali apples (King Roat variety) from Dehradun to Dubai was flagged off by Sunil Barthwal, Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The initiative, facilitated by the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), marks the state’s entry into international apple exports.
A Milestone for Uttarakhand Farmers The 1.2 MT trial consignment represents the beginning of a structured pathway for Pauri Garhwal’s famed apples to reach premium international markets. Lessons from this pilot will help improve cold chain logistics, post-harvest handling, and export readiness, laying the foundation for expanded shipments to Southeast Asia and Europe.
Centre’s Push for Export Diversification Addressing stakeholders, Secretary Barthwal underlined the government’s focus on diversifying India’s agri-export basket with region-specific products. He praised the collaboration between APEDA, the Uttarakhand government, exporters, and farmer groups in achieving this milestone, and stressed that exports of fruits, millets, honey, aromatic plants, and spices from Uttarakhand hold immense potential.
APEDA’s Commitment to Uttarakhand APEDA announced that it will soon open a dedicated regional office in Dehradun, to provide close handholding support to farmers and exporters. The authority is also advancing initiatives for organic certification, GI tagging of Uttarakhand products, and partnerships with retail chains such as Lulu Group to expand market reach.
In addition, plantation drives are underway in collaboration with the Centre for Aromatic Plants, Dehradun. In Pauri, 2,200 saplings of Timru have already been planted to encourage sustainable cultivation with future export potential.
Economic Boost for the State During FY 2024–25, APEDA-linked exports from Uttarakhand were valued at ₹201 crore, largely from jaggery, guar gum, and confectionery. With this diversification into apples and other horticultural produce, the state is expected to see a steady rise in farmer incomes and its global export footprint.
A Proud Moment for Garhwal The King Roat apples of Pauri Garhwal, known for their crisp texture, rich flavour, and natural sweetness, have long struggled to access remunerative international markets due to logistical and post-harvest challenges. The Dubai shipment represents a breakthrough, instilling fresh confidence among local growers.
Collective Commitment The flag-off ceremony was attended by APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, Additional Secretary (Uttarakhand) Jharna Kamthan, and Dr. Nripendra Chauhan, Director of the Centre for Aromatic Plants, alongside senior officials from both APEDA and the state government. All reaffirmed their commitment to scaling up Uttarakhand’s presence in global agri-exports and supporting farmers through innovation, training, and market access.
A Milestone for Uttarakhand Farmers
APEDA’s Commitment to Uttarakhand
