APEDA Facilitates First-Ever Air Shipment of GI-Tagged Indi and Puliyankudi Limes to the United Kingdom

In a remarkable boost to India’s agricultural exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has facilitated the first-ever international air shipment of GI-tagged Indi Lime from Karnataka and Puliyankudi Lime from Tamil Nadu to the United Kingdom.

The landmark shipment — comprising 350 kg of Indi Lime from Vijayapura, Karnataka, and 150 kg of Puliyankudi Lime from Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu — was dispatched on 28th October 2025, marking a historic milestone in the promotion of India’s Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged horticultural produce on the global stage.

Flag-Off Ceremony and Key Participants

The flag-off ceremony was organised with participation from multiple stakeholders including the Department of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka, Karnataka Lime Board, and the Department of Horticulture, Government of Tamil Nadu.

The event was graced by Mr. V. Dakshinamoorthy, IAS, Agricultural Production Commissioner & Secretary to the Government of Karnataka, alongside other senior officials.

Shri Abhishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA, flagged off the shipment and lauded the collaborative effort, stating that such initiatives will create global awareness about India’s unique agri-heritage while directly benefiting farmers and producer groups.

Chairman APEDA’s Remarks

During the ceremony, Shri Abhishek Dev highlighted that the export of Indi Lime and Puliyankudi Lime, both GI-tagged products, would strengthen India’s global reputation for high-quality, region-specific produce.

“By connecting farmer-producer groups with global consumers, we are strengthening the export ecosystem and ensuring better incomes for growers through branding and market diversification,” he said.

He reiterated APEDA’s commitment to supporting exporters and producers in scaling such initiatives for the benefit of India’s farming community.

State Officials’ Perspective

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. V. Dakshinamoorthy, IAS, emphasized that the successful export marked a significant step in promoting Tamil Nadu’s horticultural excellence and enhancing farmers’ access to international markets.

He also praised the collaboration between state and central agencies, exporters, and farmer groups that made the initiative possible, underscoring India’s growing capacity in value-added agricultural exports.

About Indi Lime – Karnataka’s Citrusy Pride

Indi Lime, primarily cultivated in Vijayapura district of Karnataka, is celebrated for its zesty aroma, high juice yield, balanced acidity, and superior quality.
Its distinct geographical and climatic characteristics give it a unique flavour profile, making it highly sought-after in culinary and medicinal applications.

The lime’s traditional use in Ayurvedic practices, along with its regional significance, showcases the agricultural heritage and biodiversity of Karnataka.

About Puliyankudi Lime – Tamil Nadu’s Lemon City Gem

Puliyankudi, famously known as the “Lemon City of Tamil Nadu,” lies in the Tenkasi district, where lime cultivation thrives.

The Puliyankudi Lime (Kadayam variety) stands out for its thin peel, strong acidity, high ascorbic acid content (34.3 mg/100g), and juice yield of around 55%.
Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it supports immunity and digestion while offering exceptional taste and aroma.

This lime officially received its Geographical Indication (GI) tag in April 2025, recognizing its distinct quality, origin, and nutritional attributes.

Significance of the Initiative

The export of Indi and Puliyankudi Limes to the United Kingdom signifies a major stride in internationalizing India’s GI-tagged horticultural produce.
It not only enhances the global recognition of India’s regional agricultural excellence but also contributes to:

• Market Diversification — Expanding India’s agri-export portfolio.

• Farmer Empowerment — Ensuring better income through branding.

• GI Promotion — Strengthening India’s reputation for authentic, high-quality produce.

• Collaboration — Encouraging synergy between state governments, exporters, and producer groups.

APEDA’s Continued Efforts in Promoting GI-Tagged Exports

Over the years, APEDA has been instrumental in promoting India’s GI-tagged agricultural products such as Alphonso Mango, Darjeeling Tea, Nagpur Orange, Kashmir Saffron, and Banganapalle Mangoes in global markets.

The successful export of Indi and Puliyankudi Limes represents the next chapter in this ongoing journey to build brand India in the agri-export sector, showcasing the nation’s regional diversity and quality excellence.

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