5k mango varieties on display as CM opens Aam Mahotsav
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Patna: From sweet-smelling Gulabkhas to the juicy Langra and royal Alphonso, the state's much-loved mangoes are back in the spotlight at the two-day Aam Mahotsav 2025, inaugurated by CM Nitish Kumar at Gyan Bhawan here on Saturday.
The event celebrates the state's rich mango-growing heritage while bringing thousands of varieties and stakeholders together on a single platform.
Organised by the directorate of horticulture, the festival connects farmers, traders, scientists, processors and exporters to strengthen Bihar's mango market.
Over 5,000 mangoes from across the state, produced by over 800 farmers, are on display at the event. Featured varieties include Malda, Zardaloo, Zarda, Dashahri, Krishnbhoj, Husn-e-Ara, Benazir, Alphonso and Fazli.
Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha, who also heads the agriculture department, said, "Mango production has increased by 82% compared to 2007-08. To support this growth, we have launched the Mango Development Scheme, focusing on quality production. Farmers are being trained in modern techniques through Krishi Vigyan Kendras and the Centre of Excellence for Mango in Vaishali."
Bihar currently cultivates mangoes over 1.65 lakh hectares, yielding 15.8 lakh metric tonnes.
In 2024-25 alone, 2,235 metric tonnes of mangoes and pulp were exported. To boost international presence, APEDA is planning buyer-seller meets in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Rakesh Kumar, deputy director of horticulture, said, "This year's theme is rejuvenation of old mango orchards. We plan to increase vertical production using top-working and intercropping techniques, allowing a single plant to yield multiple varieties."
The event also acts as a platform for knowledge exchange with scientists offering technical advice on orchard rejuvenation. Principal secretary of agriculture, Pankaj Kumar, stressed promoting innovation and entrepreneurship to boost farmers' incomes.
A farmer competition rewards the best mangoes and products. "Aam Mahotsav empowers rural women like us to showcase our products to a larger audience," said Sangeeta Gupta from Rohtas, who displayed pickles, jellies and more.
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