Value Addition in Mango – A Livelihood Option in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Mango is an important fruit crop of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and available during most of the months of the year due to the existing off season and multiple flowering genotypes. Only limited quantities of fruits are used for domestic consumption. Due to the limitations of inter Island transport, absence of cold chain and distance from the markets, majority of the fruits are unutilized. The nutrition rich mango fruits are to be consumed by the inhabitants of the Island for nutritional security. This may be achieved by consumption of value added products of mango that are locally available throughout the year. The mango fruits in the Island are free of chemicals and organically grown. The fruit processing of mango is an excellent option for the self help groups, tribal women and youth to initiate small scale cottage industries. The sale of certified value added products in the brand name of Island will fetch additional income along with creation of employment opportunities.