Boosting India’s agricultural exports and the government’s One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, APEDA has facilitated the first export of 20 metric tonnes of honey from Baksa district of Assam to the United States, ANI reported.According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the consignment was flagged off on May 9 and was exported by APEDA-registered exporter M/s Salt Range Foods Pvt. Ltd.“Advancing the diversification of India’s agricultural exports and One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, the first export consignment of ODOP honey to the United States from Baksa, an aspirational district of Assam, was flagged off on 09 May 2026 through the initiative of APEDA,” the ministry said in a release.The ministry said the consignment of 20 metric tonnes was sourced from Baksa district, which has been identified under the ODOP program for its strong honey production and export potential.“Produced from an eco-friendly and pesticide-free environment, the honey of Baksa district is known for its high quality and almost organic characteristics, reflecting the rich biodiversity and sustainable farming practices of the region,” the release said.The ministry said honey collection has been traditionally done by indigenous communities such as the Karbi, Mishing and Bodo tribes, where honey has long been used for food, medicinal and cultural purposes.According to National Horticulture Board data cited in the release, Assam produced around 1,650 metric tonnes of honey during FY24. Major honey producing districts of the state include Baksa, Kokrajhar, Chirang, Udalguri and Tamulpur in the Bodoland territorial area.The government said the export initiative is expected to significantly improve the earnings of local beekeepers and farmers.“This initiative is expected to significantly benefit local beekeepers and farmers, providing producers with approximately 43 per cent higher prices than the existing local farm gate prices, thereby enhancing income opportunities and strengthening rural livelihoods in the region,” the ministry said.According to the release, APEDA supported the export process by facilitating the development of infrastructure and providing testing and laboratory equipment at the processing facility to ensure compliance with global food safety and quality standards.“The export initiative is an important milestone in integrating farmers from aspirational districts into global value chains, ensuring better price realization and sustained market access,” the ministry said.The ODOP initiative aims to promote district-specific products, strengthen local economies, encourage value addition and create employment opportunities by linking regional products to international markets.
