Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin recently sent a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the urgent need for central government support for the state’s dedicated mango farmers. He stressed that these farmers are crucial contributors to India’s economy through their exports and value-added products.
This isn’t the first time CM Stalin has raised the issue. He reminded PM Modi of a similar request made in June, seeking intervention to ease the difficulties faced by mango cultivators and processors during the 2025 season. That year, farmers growing mango varieties destined for processing suffered significantly from a sharp price drop and low demand for mango pulp. The Tamil Nadu government is determined to prevent such a crisis from recurring for its beloved mango farmers.
Stalin also reiterated concerns that packaged juice manufacturers were setting fruit pulp content levels in mango beverages without adhering to the guidelines set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). He urged the Government of India to enforce strict compliance with FSSAI standards for all packaged juice producers.
Lamenting the lack of a “positive response” to his earlier plea, Mr. Stalin emphasized that for the benefit of both mango farmers and the countless consumers of mango-based drinks, manufacturing industries should be mandated to include at least 18-20% pulp content in their products. This measure, he argued, would not only increase the demand for mango pulp but also significantly improve product quality. He also noted that Tamil Nadu’s mango export strategy aims to boost exports of fresh table varieties and expand the range of mango products available internationally.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister requested that the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), operating under the Ministry of Commerce, be directed to provide comprehensive support to Tamil Nadu. This includes developing crucial infrastructure like integrated pack houses, inland container depots, cold ports, and quality testing laboratories. He also called for assistance in organizing buyer-seller meetings, identifying potential overseas markets, and conducting training programs to help farmers meet international export standards.
Mr. Stalin concluded by affirming that timely action on these requests would not only safeguard the livelihoods of mango farmers but also make a substantial contribution to the national economy through increased exports and valuable product diversification.