Karnataka’s Koraga Tribals Sweeten Global Markets: Exporting ‘Prakruthi’ Wild Honey to the Gulf

MANGALURU: In a remarkable journey from the deep forests of the Western Ghats to the high-end markets of the Middle East, the Koraga tribal families of Sullia taluk are scripting a story of self-reliance and sustainable entrepreneurship. By harvesting organic wild honey under the brand name ‘Prakruthi,’ these indigenous communities in Dakshina Kannada are now earning a steady income through international exports.

Sustainable Harvesting in the Heart of the Forest

Sourced from the dense greenery of Aranthodu, Panja, and Kollamogaru villages, the honey is collected by nine dedicated Koraga families. What sets this produce apart is the community’s commitment to ancient, sustainable harvesting techniques. Using smoke to gently move the bees, the tribals ensure that no bees are killed during the process, allowing the hives to be rebuilt naturally.

“We walk deep into the forest to collect honey from natural hives. It is a skill passed down by our elders, involving climbing trees over 50 feet high,” says Pushpa, a member of the Koraga community. “Earlier, there were few takers for our honey, but today, we have a steady income and continuous orders for our unadulterated product.”

The Role of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVK)

The transformation of this traditional craft into a commercial success is largely credited to the Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVK), established in 2023 under the Pradhana Mantri Van Dhan Vikas Yojana (PMVDVK). This initiative has provided the necessary infrastructure to process, brand, and market minor forest produce on a global scale.

The honey is FSSAI-certified, ensuring it meets international health and safety standards. After being collected in cans, it is carefully transferred into hygienic glass jars for retail and export.

Global Demand Amidst Local Challenges

Despite its premium quality, the export flow has faced minor hurdles. Mary S, the Sullia Block Manager of VDVK, noted that while they have already exported over 60kg of wild honey to Kuwait and Dubai, the ongoing West Asia crisis has slightly impacted the scale of current shipments.

“We currently have a stock of over one quintal of wild honey,” Mary shared. “We charge ₹1,250 per kg, reflecting the purity and the intensive labor involved in its collection. The demand remains high because customers in the Gulf and across Karnataka recognize the medicinal and organic value of ‘Prakruthi’ honey.”

Empowering Indigenous Livelihoods

This initiative has not only preserved the traditional occupation of the Koragas—one of the most marginalized tribes in Karnataka—but has also shielded them from exploitation by middlemen. With direct market access and a growing global footprint, the Koraga tribals of Sullia are proving that traditional wisdom, when paired with modern governmental support, can create a sustainable economic future.