Uttar Pradesh govt plans to set up crop-specific boards to boost exports

Uttar Pradesh (UP) is pushing towards achieving annual agricultural exports of US$ 5.99 billion (Rs. 50,000 crore) by establishing crop-specific commodity boards. This initiative aims to boost farm productivity, stimulate food processing, and revitalize the agricultural value chain over the next four years. Minister of Horticulture, Mr. Dinesh Pratap Singh, believes UP can surpass its annual agro exports of nearly US$ 2.40 billion (Rs. 20,000 crore) by supporting agricultural startups and fostering government-industry collaborations to improve farmers' incomes.

He highlighted plans to create state-level horticultural commodity boards similar to the Spices Board of India, focusing on crops like potato and banana grown across 2.1 million hectares in UP. He emphasized the high local demand for products such as strawberries, dragon fruit, and flowers, suggesting substantial domestic market potential before scaling up exports.

Meanwhile, the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) has established the UP-State Agriculture Council to promote agro-industry growth and exports. Chaired by Mr. Mukesh Singh, the council aims to advocate sustainable agricultural practices, enhance market access, and support export initiatives. ICFA plans to host the 'Agro World 2025' summit in Lucknow next February to advance agricultural initiatives further and expand export opportunities, targeting markets in the Gulf, Latin America, and Africa.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.