From small orchards to 10-ton European orders: How Dhenkanal mangoes are shaping Odisha’s export boom

In a success story ripening with pride and promise, mangoes from the state’s Dhenkanal district are charting a sweet new course for Odisha’s agri-export ambitions. From humble local orchards to the fruit aisles of London, the journey of the region’s famed mangoes, especially the Amrapali variety, has become a symbol of how grassroots farming is gaining global traction.

London’s Newest Summer Delight

After making a successful mark in Dubai, Dhenkanal’s Amrapali mangoes have now entered the UK market, with a major shipment heading to London this week.

A 10-ton export order has been placed, with the first 2 tons already dispatched in the initial phase. Many see this as a strong signal of international appetite for Odisha’s seasonal produce, with Londoners now getting a taste of eastern India’s finest.

Powered by Local Hands and Government Push

Sources reported that the mangoes are being sourced from Sansailo village in Lambodarpur, under Dhenkanal Sadar block, where a government-aided orchard operates with community participation.

Notably, more than 30 local women were employed in the harvesting and packing process, marking an important step in both rural women’s empowerment and economic inclusion.

“This is a moment of pride. We never imagined fruits from our village would be sold in the UK,” said Radha Madhab Rath, a farmer involved in the initiative. The sentiment was echoed by fellow grower Babul Sahu, who added, “Even two or three bites are enough to fill your heart.”

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Rigorous Packaging for Global Standards

To meet international safety and quality benchmarks, the mangoes undergo strict cleaning and packaging protocols.

The fruits are washed in cold water, arranged in export-grade trays, wrapped in protective paper, and sealed in cartons for long-distance transit. Oversight is provided by APEDA and Odisha’s Palladium Horticulture initiative, working closely with local Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

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Climate Advantage and Export Potential

Dhenkanal’s unique agro-climatic conditions support mango varieties like Dasheri, Langra, and Amrapali, prized for their intense aroma and sweetness. “The soil and weather here give the mangoes a distinctive flavour,” said Ajit Mohant, an advisor with Palladium. “It’s time for the world to recognise that.”

In fact, over 30 tons of mangoes from Dhenkanal have already been exported in 2025 alone, to Italy, Dubai, France, Australia, and now England. With rising global interest, stakeholders believe the district could become a mango export hub for eastern India.

From soil to shelf, Dhenkanal is proving that small orchards can fuel big dreams, one mango at a time.