Why in news?
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) announced the first cohort of its BHARATI programme in June 2026. The initiative selects 100 startups to enhance India’s agri‑food exports through innovation and capacity‑building.
Background
BHARATI stands for Bharat’s Hub for Agritech, Resilience, Advancement and Incubation for Export Innovation. Launched in September 2025, it aims to create a pipeline of export‑ready enterprises to help India reach USD 50 billion in agri‑food exports by 2030. Over 700 applications were received, and 100 startups from 22 states and 2 Union Territories were selected. The programme includes a 120‑hour acceleration course covering export readiness, market access, packaging, branding and investor engagement.
Highlights of the first cohort
- Diverse representation: Startups work on millets, GI‑tagged fruits, spices, organic products and value‑added foods.
- Capacity building: Participants received training from experts, mentoring sessions and exposure to global trade fairs such as Gulfood 2026.
- Early successes: Some startups already exported Jardalu mangoes to Dubai, millet nutraceuticals to Auckland and GI‑tagged fig and jamun juices to the US and UK. Others shipped organic products to the EU and US.
Importance
- Export boost: By nurturing young firms, BHARATI can diversify export baskets and improve quality standards.
- Rural development: Agritech startups can create jobs and add value to farm produce, benefiting farmers and rural economies.
- Innovation culture: The programme encourages experimentation in processing, packaging and logistics, making Indian products more competitive.
Conclusion
APEDA’s BHARATI initiative showcases how targeted support can boost innovation in the agri‑food sector. Continued mentorship and market linkages will help startups scale up and contribute to India’s export ambitions.