Value-Added Mango Products: A Smart Strategy for Tamil Nadu Farmers
Introduction: The Crisis Facing TN Mango Farmers
In 2025, Tamil Nadu mango farmers faced massive losses. Mango prices crashed to as low as ₹4/kg, forcing many to leave fruits unharvested. This exposed the vulnerability of depending solely on fresh mango markets.
But there’s a solution: value addition.
By processing mangoes into pulp, pickles, juices, or jams, farmers can stabilise income, reduce wastage, and access higher-margin markets.
Why Value Addition Is the Answer to Price Crashes
- No dependency on middlemen
- Sell throughout the year, not just during the mango season.
- Use second-grade mangoes that can’t be sold fresh.
- High scope for branding & direct-to-consumer sales
- Open up exports & online retail platforms.
Tamil Nadu Government Support for Mango Processing
Several schemes now assist small and medium farmers:
🔹 PM-FME Scheme (One District One Product):
- Up to ₹10 lakh for individual food processing units
- 35% subsidy for plant & machinery
- Training and branding support
🔹 TNSAMB & Agri Export Zones (AEZ):
- Help with setting up cold storage, grading lines, and packaging centres.
- Funding is available for packhouses and marketing hubs.
🔹 FPO Support:
- Farmer Producer Organisations can receive collective grants for community-level processing.
How to Start a Mango Processing Unit in TN
- Identify your product niche (e.g., pulp for juice companies or pickles for retail).
- Choose a scalable unit size—small scale (100 kg/day) or medium (1 tonne/day).
- Apply for FSSAI license, GST, and MSME registration.
- Get machinery support under the PM-FME or TN Agribusiness Policy.
- Brand your products locally or register under a startup/producer company.
Case Study: Success Story from Krishnagiri
In 2024, a women-led FPO in Krishnagiri converted their low-priced mangoes into pulp, selling to beverage companies.
- ROI in 2 years
- Earned ₹35–₹50 per kg vs. ₹6 fresh market rate
- Now exports pulp to Dubai via APEDA-certified buyers.
Where to Sell Value-Added Mango Products
- Local Retail—Organic stores, supermarkets
- Online—Amazon, BigBasket, Meesho, social media
- Exhibitions—government trade fairs, agri expos
- Export—Through APEDA registration & global buyers
Final: From Farmers to Agro-Entrepreneurs
Value addition transforms farmers from price-takers to agribusiness owners. It ensures that no mango goes to waste and every kilo adds value. In a volatile market, this is not just smart—it’s essential for survival and growth.