Mukesh Ambani’s Mango Empire: A Sweet Blend of Sustainability and Business

Mangoes, often hailed as the “king of fruits,” are a beloved summer staple in India—but behind their juicy appeal lies a booming global trade. Surprisingly, one of the biggest names in the mango world today is none other than Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries. While best known for his industrial and telecom ventures, Ambani is also behind the world’s largest mango export operation, quietly rooted in a vast orchard in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

This 600-acre plantation, named Dhirubhai Ambani Lakhibagh Amrai, began in 1997 as a unique response to environmental concerns. At the time, Reliance faced ecological compliance challenges related to its Jamnagar oil refinery. Instead of traditional solutions, the company turned to an ambitious green alternative—converting arid land into a thriving mango orchard.

Since then, the project has flourished into an agricultural powerhouse. With more than 150,000 mango trees and over 200 varieties—from Indian favourites like Alphonso, Kesar, and Ratna to international types like Tommy Atkins and Kent—the orchard produces around 600 tonnes of mangoes each year. Many of these are shipped to markets across the world, making Reliance the global leader in mango exports.

What sets this mango operation apart is its innovative and sustainable approach. The orchard uses desalinated water, drip irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, and precision agriculture to ensure both efficiency and high fruit quality. The emphasis on eco-friendly farming has not only made the land fertile but also turned the orchard into a model of sustainable agribusiness.

Reliance’s mango journey isn’t limited to exports. The company also plays a vital role in uplifting local farming communities. Every year, it distributes around 100,000 saplings to nearby farmers and offers training in modern cultivation techniques—helping boost both income and environmental practices in the region.

The project, overseen by Nita Ambani, also holds a special place in the Ambani family’s heart. Mukesh Ambani’s deep affection for mangoes stems from his father, the late Dhirubhai Ambani, who was known for his love of the fruit.

What began as a corporate green initiative has blossomed into a symbol of visionary agriculture—combining business acumen with environmental stewardship. Through this unexpected venture, Mukesh Ambani has not only turned barren land into mango gold but also shown how corporate responsibility can grow into global impact—one fruit at a time.