Rose scented litchi export from Pathankot to Qatar marks India’s entry into high-value horticultural trade. Learn how APEDA and Punjab farmers enabled this milestone.
🌱 India Flags Off First Ever Export of Rose‑Scented Litchis from Pathankot
India has marked a significant milestone in its agricultural exports: the first-ever consignment of premium rose‑scented litchis from Pathankot, Punjab, was dispatched to Doha, Qatar, on 23 June 2025. Weighing 1 metric tonne, this shipment was accompanied by a secondary consignment of 0.5 MT to Dubai, UAE Coordinated by APEDA in collaboration with the Punjab Horticulture Department, the Lullu Group, and farmer Prabhat Singh, this achievement underscores India’s growing horticultural export capabilities
The litchis were carefully packed in reefer pallets to ensure freshness—a critical precursor to scaling such exports. Punjab itself contributed 71,490 MT to India’s 2023–24 litchi production, 12.39% of the national output, cultivated across 4,327 ha with a yield of 16,523 kg/ha In FY 2024–25, India exported 639.53 MT of litchis, part of the larger USD 3.87 billion fruit & vegetable export basket, which saw a 5.67% growth year-on-year
Why This News Is Important
Boost to Agri‑Export Economy
India’s horticultural exports diversify with high-value crops like litchis—a shift from traditional mangoes and bananas. The export also reinforces APEDA’s strategy to enhance India’s presence in global markets and supports farmers’ incomes
Punjab as a Strategic Agri‑Hub
The success showcases Punjab’s favorable agro-climatic conditions and progressive farming practices. It positions Pathankot as a potential litchi export hub, motivating regional farmers towards global market integration
New Export Horizons
Expanding exports to Qatar and UAE signifies India tapping into lucrative Gulf markets with high purchase power—an opportunity to replicate for other niche horticultural crops.
Historical Context: Rise of India’s Horticulture Export Mission
India’s horticultural exports have shown consistent momentum over the past decade, fuelled by APEDA’s policies, FPO/FPC support, and refrigerated logistics. While staples like mango, banana, grapes, and oranges once dominated, recently cherry, jamun, and litchi exports have accelerated. The litchi shipment reflects this following trend
Punjab, traditionally known for wheat and rice, has diversified into fruits. Investments in storage, packaging, and supply chain infrastructure—backed by government departments—have made fruit exports feasible and profitable. This Pathankot initiative follows several pilot projects aimed at unlocking the international potential of Indian horticulture.
Key Takeaways from First Rose‑Scented Litchi Export
| S. No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1. | First‑ever 1 MT consignment of rose-scented litchis flagged off to Qatar on 23 June 2025. |
| 2. | 0.5 MT additional shipment sent simultaneously to UAE, highlighting regional expansion. |
| 3. | APEDA & Punjab Horticulture Dept led coordination with the Lullu Group and farmer Prabhat Singh. |
| 4. | Punjab produced 71,490 MT of litchis in FY 2023–24, 12.39% of national output on 4,327 ha. |
| 5. | Fruit & vegetable exports reached USD 3.87 B, recording 5.67% YOY growth in FY24–25. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is special about the rose-scented litchis exported from Pathankot?
These litchis are a premium horticultural variety known for their unique rose-like fragrance and excellent shelf life. They are cultivated in the favorable agro-climatic conditions of Pathankot, Punjab.
2. Who coordinated the first export of these litchis?
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in collaboration with the Punjab Horticulture Department, the Lullu Group, and local farmer Prabhat Singh facilitated the shipment.
3. What quantity of litchis was exported and where?
India exported 1 metric tonne (MT) of rose-scented litchis to Qatar and an additional 0.5 MT to the UAE in June 2025.
4. Why is this event significant for agriculture and trade?
This export opens doors for new international markets for Indian horticultural produce, strengthens farmer income, and aligns with India’s agri-export diversification strategy.
5. How much litchi does Punjab produce?
In 2023–24, Punjab produced 71,490 MT of litchis, which accounted for 12.39% of India’s total litchi production, grown across 4,327 hectares.
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