Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has successfully exported the first consignment of 15,000 kg of GI-tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands. This achievement marks a significant step in strengthening India's presence in the global spice market while promoting the unique agricultural heritage of the North Eastern region, particularly highlighting Sikkim's prominence as an organic farming hub.
Dalle Chilly, also known as Fire Ball Chilly, is known for its intense pungency, vibrant red color, and rich nutritional value. With a Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating ranging from 100,000 to 350,000, it is highly valued for culinary and medicinal applications. The growing international demand for this specialty spice reflects the global recognition of India’s premium organic products. Awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2020 by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Dalle Chilly has gained a strong market identity.
Mevedir, a leading agri-export enterprise, sourced the consignment through an extensive network of farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in South Sikkim, particularly in the Tinkitam and Tarku regions. By offering a premium price of Rs 250-300 per kg, compared to the usual Rs 180-200 per kg, the export has significantly benefited local farmers. This initiative highlights the economic advantages of GI tagging and the expanded opportunities presented by international trade.
The processing of the consignment took place at an APEDA-funded Integrated Pack House, established by the Department of Horticulture, Sikkim. Out of the total quantity, 9,000 kg was dehydrated, while 6,000 kg was preserved for further processing and export. The drying process resulted in a 12.5% recovery rate, with 1,600 kg of fresh chillies yielding 200 kg of dried chillies for shipment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently highlighted the importance of the North East in India's organic farming landscape. He stated that the GI tag serves not only as a mark of authenticity but also as a means to unlock new markets and drive economic growth for regional farmers.
The Government of India has further supported organic farming in the North East through the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER). This initiative has been instrumental in enhancing the production and quality of organic Dalle Chilly, improving its competitiveness in international markets.
Facilitated by APEDA, Mevedir directly exported the first shipment to the Solomon Islands, bypassing intermediaries and establishing a direct trade relationship. The buyer, introduced to Sikkim’s Dalle Chilly during its international debut in Singapore in 2023, opted for direct sourcing from Mevedir, underscoring the growing global trust in India’s organic supply chain.
