The union agriculture ministry has imposed a ban on export of okra (ladies finger) to European countries because of detection of a pest called thrips in the vegetable.
The union agriculture ministry has imposed a ban on export of okra (ladies finger) to European countries because of detection of a pest called thrips in the vegetable.
"In order to achieve pest-free export to European Union (EU), fruits and vegetables should be bought from pest-free registered farmers only. A large number of thrips interceptions may have a negative impact on the export. Therefore, the ban has been imposed," reads the ministry's circular.
However, traders say a couple of consignments of fruits and vegetables, including okra, being low quality is normal, and these are brought back in any case.
India exports okra worth Rs70-80 crore annually to European countries, mainly England.
"Detection of pests cannot be the cause of imposing a blanket ban on export of okra. This arbitrary decision will result in a big financial loss to traders and farmers. Other countries, such as Pakistan, are continuing to export vegetables, including okra, and bringing back the questionable consignments. Why we are so extra cautious? We do take proper care and precautions while exporting," said Kaushal Khakhar, CEO of Kay Bee Exports, one of India's leading okra exporters.
Vishal Khakhar, another okra exporter, said a large number of pest interceptions in okra and even other fruits and vegetables have been happening due to consistent untimely rainfall, which has increased the incidence of thrips.
He added that export helps farmers get good rates for their vegetables and crops. "It will be very difficult for us to get pest-free vegetables, particularly okra, in India. Nevertheless, we take all necessary precautions while exporting okra," Khakhar said.
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