In the lush orchards of Malda, West Bengal fondly known as the Mango Capital of India farmers once grappled with a bitter reality. Despite producing world-famous varieties like Fazli, Aarjanua, and Asina, they struggled with pests, post-harvest losses, and distress sales. For smallholder farmers, many from Scheduled Caste communities, dreams of global recognition for their mangoes seemed far out of reach.
This changed when ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture), Malda stepped in with a holistic transformation plan. The journey began with cluster mapping, training, and technology infusion. Farmers learned Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and eco-friendly alternatives to chemical sprays. They received IPM kits, pheromone traps, bio-agents, and innovative tools like Kavach fruit bagging technology. The results were clear healthier orchards, residue-free fruits, and significantly higher profits.
But the transformation went beyond cultivation. KVK built bridges to markets and exports. With the support of APEDA, NABARD, and local chambers, farmers were trained in branding, certification, and international trade requirements. Malda mangoes soon found themselves showcased at international festivals, winning hearts and attention.
The turning point came on 12th July 2025, when history was scripted 4 tonnes of premium Malda mangoes were exported to the UAE for the very first time. Facilitated by Shrusti Food Products, a youth-led enterprise, this milestone marked Malda’s entry into the global fruit trade. Farmers who once sold their produce at throwaway prices now proudly watched their mangoes take flight from Kolkata Airport to overseas markets.
The numbers spoke volumes: costs of cultivation dropped, pesticide use was halved, profits rose, and the Benefit-Cost ratio jumped from 2.0 to 2.78. Most importantly, over 150 farmers adopted scientific practices, ensuring Malda mangoes stood tall as a brand of quality, safety, and sustainability.
This success is more than just about mangoes—it’s about empowerment, resilience, and transformation. Scheduled Caste farming families saw their livelihoods uplifted, youth became agri-entrepreneurs, and Malda carved its name on the world fruit map.
From orchard to overseas, Malda’s story proves that with the right blend of technology, training, and trade, even small farmers can achieve global dreams.
(Source: ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (CISH), Malda, ICAR-CISH, Lucknow and ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)
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