The Malda Mango Association has initiated a request for the reopening of the Malda airport, aiming to facilitate direct mango exports from the district. Malda is recognised as one of India’s largest mango-producing areas, with anticipated production levels this year expected to be around four to five lakh metric tonnes, consistent with previous years. The establishment of functional air cargo facilities would enable traders to reach international markets directly, potentially increasing profitability for local farmers.

Traders have also called for the establishment of mango processing units and the necessary government certifications needed for exports. The timing of these demands coincides with the ongoing two-phase Assembly elections in West Bengal, scheduled for April 23 and April 29.

Ujjal Saha, the President of the Malda Merchant Association, pointed out that West Bengal holds the highest mango production rate in India, with Malda district contributing predominantly to this output. He stated, “There is a possibility of producing around five lakh metric tonnes of mangoes here,” adding that Malda is referred to as the “Mango City,” well-known for its mangoes throughout the country.

Importance Of Geographical Indication Tags

Among Malda’s mango varieties, three have received prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tags: Fazli, Khirsapati (Himsagar), and Lakshmanbhog. Saha noted that these recognitions have further boosted the popularity of Malda mangoes. The district boasts around 150 varieties, with numerous selections favoured in international markets as well.

Pritam Sarkar, another mango trader, expressed the pressing demand for airport reopening, highlighting that discussions about Malda mangoes often arise during election seasons but tend to vanish post-elections. He remarked that while political leaders frequently address the topic, actionable efforts remain pending.

Arpit Mandal, a fellow trader, mentioned the role of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). He explained that while APEDA offers subsidies and support for exports, reopening the airport would significantly enhance the direct export capabilities for mangoes, benefiting local traders. This year, an estimated production of around four lakh metric tonnes is anticipated.

Challenges And Opportunities For Mango Farmers

A further concern raised by Mandal involves the necessity for mango processing industries to minimise waste, as mangoes have a short shelf life of about three months. He stressed that establishing these processing facilities and reopening the airport are crucial for both sustainability and meeting global demand for mango pulp.

Another anonymous businessman reported that attempts have been made to liaise with both central and state officials regarding these issues, including outreach to the Finance Minister and various ministries relevant to food processing and horticulture. However, responses to these communications have been minimal. He emphasised the need for additional government initiatives to support Malda’s GI-tagged mangoes, asserting that without significant intervention, the sustainability of the mango industry could be jeopardised, harming local farmers.

Krishna Mandal, a mango orchard owner, highlighted the diversity of mango varieties cultivated in Malda, which include Himsagar, Patali, Fazli, Lakshmanbhog, Amrapali, and Langda. He noted that mangoes are exported both domestically and internationally but are priced relatively low in Malda, thus limiting farmers’ earnings.

Mango harvesting is set to commence soon, with strong yields expected. Krishna has conveyed to local legislators the importance of promoting Malda mangoes in markets outside the region to secure fair prices for farmers. He reiterated that prioritising exports could significantly benefit the agricultural community in Malda, ultimately leading to improved financial outcomes for the region’s producers.

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