Mangoes, often referred to as the “king of fruits,” are more than just a seasonal treat—they are a global business. At the heart of the world’s largest mango operation is Mukesh Ambani, known for leading India’s largest industrial empire. However, his influence extends into agriculture, where Reliance Industries has quietly built the world’s largest mango export operation through a 600-acre mango orchard in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
The Origin of the Mango Orchard
The journey of this remarkable orchard, named Dhirubhai Ambani Lakhibagh Amrai, began in 1997, during a time when Reliance was grappling with stringent environmental regulations related to its Jamnagar oil refinery. Rather than following traditional solutions, the company launched an ambitious green initiative by transforming barren land into a thriving mango plantation. What began as an environmental project soon evolved into an agricultural success story.
A State-of-the-Art Mango Plantation
Today, the orchard spans 600 acres and features over 150,000 mango trees, cultivating more than 200 varieties of mangoes. These include renowned Indian varieties like Alphonso, Kesar, and Ratna, alongside international types such as Tommy Atkins and Kent, sourced from regions like Florida and Israel.
Reliance’s mango farm is not just large in scale but also technologically advanced. The company employs drip irrigation, desalinated water, rainwater harvesting, and precision fertilization to ensure the highest quality mangoes. As a result, the orchard produces around 600 tons of mangoes annually, with a significant portion exported worldwide.
Supporting Local Agriculture and Sustainability
In addition to its mango operation, Reliance plays a pivotal role in supporting local farmers. The company distributes nearly 100,000 mango saplings to nearby farmers each year, providing them with training on modern agricultural techniques. This initiative has not only enhanced sustainable farming practices but also helped increase the income of local communities.
A Family Connection and Legacy
Nita Ambani oversees the orchard, ensuring that it meets the ever-growing demand for mangoes, especially from non-resident Gujaratis around the world. Mukesh Ambani’s passion for mangoes stems from his father, the late Dhirubhai Ambani, who passed down a deep love for the fruit.
A Model of Innovation and Sustainability
What began as a green initiative has blossomed into a model of agricultural innovation. Through a combination of environmental responsibility and business acumen, Mukesh Ambani has redefined corporate farming. His mango empire is not only profitable but also serves as an example of sustainability, community support, and forward-thinking leadership in agriculture.
