Maharashtra has become the first Indian state to implement the hortiNet system to increase vegetable exports, by helping farmers maintain export standards. The traceability system was developed by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). At present, traceable systems such as grapenet, anranet and mangonet are in place for the export of grapes, pomegranates and mangoes, respectively.
State agriculture commissioner Vikas Deshmukh said, "We have started implementing the hortiNet traceability system in association with APEDA. The objective is to provide a platform to the farmers wanting to export vegetables and fruits. It will help them export residue-free and quality vegetables as per the export standards."
"Farmers grow several types of vegetables. Hence, we have decided to include five select vegetables under the hortiNet traceability system. Initially, we have taken okra for export under this system. Other vegetables which will be included under hortiNet soon are bitter gourd, snake gourd, chilli and gourd. The registration of farms of farmers wanting to export vegetables will be conducted by the agriculture department," he said.
On the vegetable and fruit export potential of the state, Deshmukh said, "The state contributes 80% of the country's total vegetable and fruit export. Besides, Maharashtra contributes 77% of mango export, 95% of grapes, 81% of pomegranates and 48% of onions."As per the traceability system, it is mandatory to register farms or orchards of farmers, who want to export. After registrations, the samples of vegetables or fruits are tested in a lab to ensure export of residue-free material.
