STAFF REPORTER
Guwahati, June 24: With the vision to harness the export potential of organic agricultural products from Assam and neighbouring states, the Agricultural Department of Assam under the aegis of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) today organized a conference focusing on the Export Potential of Natural, Organic and Geographical Indications (GI) certified agro-products here. The prime objective of the conference was to promote the export of natural, organic and GI agro-products grown in Assam and neighbouring states by creating international market linkages. The meeting focused on agricultural products from Assam and other North East Regions (NER) and witnessed the presence of farmers, traders and exporters. Under the guidance of Assam Chief Minister HimantaBiswaSarma, the conference was inaugurated by Shri Atul Bora, Minister of Agriculture, Assam Govt who was the Chief Guest of the event. Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, Additional Chief Secretary-cum-Agriculture Production Commissioner, Assam government was also present on the occasion. In his inaugural address, Atul Bora, Agriculture Minister, Assam hailed the efforts and initiatives taken by APEDA for the promotion of the export of natural and organic agricultural products of Assam as well as other states of the North East Region. On the occasion, Dr. M. Angamuthu, APEDA Chairman said that the conference will provide an opportunity for the producers and processors of Assam to showcase their products and promote the exports as well as their wholesale and retail sales. At the workshop, farmers, FPOs, entrepreneurs and government officials were advised to fulfill all the basic requirements such as quality parameters, nutritional values, lab testing and health parameters. More than 20 exporters, 70 farmer producers organizations or farmers producer companies participated in the event. Eighteen stalls displayed a range of natural, organic and GI products. APEDA under its Agricultural Export Policy is encouraging states to harness the potential of Agri produce exports. APEDA aims to create a platform for the buyers to get the products directly from the producer group and the processors. APEDA provides a platform for the exporters to market their food products in the global marketplace. APEDA also organizes national events like AAHAR, Organic World Congress, Bio Fach India etc. to promote agri-exports. Another key initiative includes the development and implementation of traceability systems which ensure the food safety and quality compliances of the importing countries.
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