DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

Adding another feather to its cap, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government has for the first time started the export of litchi from state's sub-mountainous districts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur to England (UK). Horticulture Minister S. Chetan Singh Jouramajra virtually flagged off the first consignment of litchi, exported by the Horticulture Department in collaboration with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

The Cabinet Minister informed, litchi cultivation in Punjab covers a total area of 3250 hectares, with a production of approximately 13,000 metric tons, adding that due to the favorable climate in Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur districts, the litchi produced here has a naturally deep red colour and sweetness superior to those from other states.

Chetan Singh Jouramajra said that the first shipment of litchi is being exported to England (UK). He stated that through the Punjab government's tireless initiatives, litchi growers will be able to earn higher profits through exports.

"In the coming days, efforts will be made to export other horticultural crops as well, in collaboration with the Horticulture Department and APEDA", said the Horticulture Minister.

He said that the litchi produce of progressive farmer Rakesh Dadwal from village Muradpur in Pathankot district has been sent for export to England from Amritsar.

The Cabinet Minister asserted that the day is not far when Punjab's fruits will put the state's name on the map in important foreign markets, and litchi growers will gain recognition internationally.
(editor@dailyworld.in)