Karnataka exports GI-tagged produce to Maldives

In a first-ever milestone for India’s agri-exports, Karnataka’s Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged produce including Nanjangudu Rasabale bananas, Mysore Betel Leaves (Chigurele), and Indi Lime was air-shipped to the Maldives on 15 January 2026.

The shipment was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in coordination with the Department of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka, and the ICAR Institute, reflecting strong institutional support in promoting region-specific agricultural products in international markets. The produce was sourced directly from farmers in Mysuru and Vijayapura districts, ensuring fair prices and market access. The export was executed by M/s Silken Global Imports and Exports, Mysuru, led by entrepreneur Mr Imran Pasha, who advocates farmer-led export models.

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is granted to products that have a unique quality, reputation, or other characteristic attributable to their specific geographic origin. It ensures legal protection for the product’s identity, promotes its unique traits globally, and helps farmers secure premium pricing.

Nanjangudu Rasabale bananas, known as the “King of Bananas,” are prized for their soft texture, unique flavor, and nutritional richness. Historically favored by the Mysore Maharajas, they received the GI tag in 2005 to preserve their heritage and region-specific quality. Mysore Betel Leaves (Chigurele) are distinguished by heart-shaped leaves and a mild spicy taste, valued for digestive, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, with the GI tag recognizing their unique flavor and shape specific to Mysore. Indi Lime, grown mainly in Indi taluk of Vijayapura district, is notable for its high juice content, distinctive aroma, and superior quality, with GI recognition reflecting its regional identity and unmatched quality.

The shipment is expected to provide substantial income gains, with Nanjangudu banana farmers likely to earn around 50% more and Indi lime farmers over 40% higher returns compared to local market sales. Such exports encourage expansion of GI-tagged crop cultivation, strengthen farmer-exporter linkages, and enhance global recognition of Karnataka’s agricultural heritage. The successful air shipment not only boosts farmers’ incomes but also promotes India’s rich agricultural legacy on international platforms, opening new opportunities in high-value global markets.