Keonjhar, May 6: In a remarkable milestone for Odisha’s agriculture sector, women farmers from the Bharalipat Producer Group in Keonjhar's Sadar Block have successfully exported bitter gourd to Dubai for the very first time.
The achievement marks a new chapter in rural empowerment and highlights the global potential of local produce.
This groundbreaking export was made possible through the Agriculture Production Cluster (APC) Programme, spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment in partnership with Palladium and the Directorate of Horticulture. The programme’s structured support helped the farmers cultivate high-quality bitter gourd that meets stringent international standards.
Sabuja Banani Producer Company Limited, established under the APC Programme and backed by the Department of Mission Shakti, played a key role in managing and facilitating this export.
The initiative is being hailed as a significant step towards enhancing the visibility and income of women farmers in the region.