The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the export of a 1 metric ton consignment of GI-tagged Gulbarga Tur Dal from Karnataka to the Maldives on September 24, 2026. This initiative aims to expand international markets for India's GI-tagged agricultural products and strengthen the participation of Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO)-led brands in agricultural exports.
A significant aspect of this export-linked value chain is the improved price realization for farmers. While the prevailing market price for tur dal is ₹60 per kg, farmers are realizing ₹82 per kg through the export channel, representing more than 30% higher earnings. The export was handled by M/s Silken Global Exports and Imports, Mysuru, through its FPO-led brand, and the consignment will be transported to the Maldives by sea.
Gulbarga Tur Dal, associated with the Kalaburagi region of Karnataka, received Geographical Indication registration in 2019 and is recognized for its distinctive taste and quality. APEDA lists this product among Karnataka's registered GI products, and Kalaburagi is one of the major centers of tur cultivation and production in the state.
APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev emphasized the importance of taking India's GI-tagged agricultural products to global markets and creating stronger market linkages for farmers. The export is expected to pave the way for regular shipments to the Maldives, creating sustained market opportunities for producers and exporters from Karnataka while supporting greater value realization for farmers and enabling closer integration with export-oriented value chains.
The flag-off event was attended by senior APEDA officers including Dr. Tarun Bajaj (Senior Consultant), Smt. Vinita Sudhanshu (General Manager), along with Shri V. Sadashiva (Managing Director of KSPAML, Gulbarga) and Shri Imran Pasha of M/s Silken Global Exports and Imports.