Shahi Litchi, Jardalu Mango, Mithila Makhana and Magahi Pan: the GI-tagged produce named for Bihar

Background

A release of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry describes Bihar's agri-ecosystem as home to a diverse range of high-potential produce, from Shahi Litchi, Jardalu Mango, Mithila Makhana and Magahi Pan to staple grains and a mix of fruits and vegetables. The Geographical Indication (GI) tags attached to several of these products elevate their global appeal. Exports of this produce are supported by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), which has opened a regional office in Patna; exporters from Bihar had earlier been served from the APEDA regional office in Varanasi. The release records work on sustainable packaging for GI-tagged Shahi Litchi in Muzaffarpur and collaboration with agri-research bodies including NRC Litchi and NRC Makhana. The National Research Centre for Makhana (NRCM), Darbhanga is a facility dedicated to Makhana research and innovation; its work includes high-yield makhana and thornless water chestnut varieties, water-efficient and integrated farming systems, and Makhana-cum-fish farming. A reply of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare records that makhana cultivation has expanded from approximately 13,000 to 35,000 hectares across multiple states.