Important for UPSC Prelims: Economy
Context
- The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever sea shipment of value-added flavoured makhana (fox nuts) from Bihar to Canada.
- The shipment marks a significant step in promoting value-added agricultural exports, enhancing farmers’ incomes, and strengthening India’s agri-export ecosystem.
About Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
- APEDA is the apex statutory body responsible for the promotion and development of agricultural and processed food exports from India.
- Established: 1986
- Statutory Basis: Established under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act, 1985.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Headquarters: New Delhi
Functions of APEDA
- Promotes exports of scheduled agricultural and processed food products.
- Develops export infrastructure and cold-chain facilities.
- Facilitates quality certification, packaging and branding.
- Supports exporters through market development and capacity building.
- Promotes value addition to enhance global competitiveness of Indian agricultural products.
| About Makhana (Fox Nuts) Scientific Name: Euryale ferox Key Features • An aquatic crop cultivated in ponds and wetlands. • Rich in protein, fibre, calcium and antioxidants. • Widely consumed as a healthy snack and used in traditional Indian cuisine. Producing State: Bihar accounts for nearly 90% of India’s makhana production. GI Tag: Mithila Makhana received the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag in 2022. |
Conclusion
The export of value-added makhana highlights India’s emphasis on value addition, agricultural exports, and enhancing farmers’ income through global market access.
| Important CTC from this article for UPSC 1. APEDA 2. Makhana |