HT Digital,
Guwahati, Dec 28: On December 27th, 2023, Assam marked a significant milestone in its agricultural export history with the virtual flag-off ceremony of a substantial consignment bound for London. The ceremony was graced by the virtual presence of Assam’s Agriculture Minister, Atul Bora, who proudly witnessed the dispatch of 500 kilograms of lablab beans, locally known as ‘urohi’, and a remarkable quantity of 5,000 Assam lemons, referred to as ‘Kaji Nemu’.
This event not only showcased Assam’s rich agricultural diversity but also emphasized the state’s expanding global reach under the robust leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Minister Bora expressed confidence that such exports would revolutionize Assam’s agricultural economy.
The lablab beans originated from Dihingparia FPC in the Sivasagar district, while the special quality lemons were cultivated in Tinsukia district. These exports are a testament to the hard work and dedication of Assam’s farmers and the concerted efforts of the Horticulture Department, the Agriculture Department of Sivasagar district, and Mantu Saikia, the Chairman of the FPC. Special recognition was given to Kaushik Barua for his role in facilitating these exports.
The ‘Kaji Nemu’ is a unique lemon variety exclusively grown in Assam, larger than regular lemons, and known for its cluster-bearing habit which typically yields seedless fruits with 9-12 segments. Its distinct taste, less sour and subtly sweet compared to other lemons, along with its culinary, beverage, industrial, and medicinal uses, has garnered international attention. This export follows a previous success where nearly 6 metric tons of ‘Kaji Nemu’ were exported to European markets between December 2020 and January 2021.
As the consignment makes its way to the Wholesale International Market Spitalfields in London, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of Assam’s agricultural community, aiming to make a mark on the global stage with their indigenous produce.