Mango season is in full swing, and while the buzz around popular Indian mango varieties like Alphonso, Hapus, and Langra continues to dominate the internet, a lesser-known variety is making its way to the top echelons of the Indian political system. Read on for details.
Jardalu Mangoes for Dignitaries
According to a TOI city report, over 125 quintals of the famed GI-tagged Jardalu mangoes from Bhagalpur are being dispatched to the country's top dignitaries. This includes the President of India, Vice President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, Rajya Sabha Chairman, Chief Ministers, and other VVIPs.
What Makes This Mango Popular
The exclusive mango variety recently gained further popularity after the Prime Minister praised them in his monthly program 'Mann Ki Baat' on June 1. He noted that the fruit's distinctive aroma and sweetness can be identified from a distance. He also cited Jardalu mangoes as an example of local products successfully reaching global markets and referred to the country's growing mango economy.
How Are They Being Sent to VVIPs
The freshly harvested Jardalu mangoes are being packed in plastic boxes at Madhuban Farm in Maheshi-Tilakpur village under Sultanganj block. The process is supervised by agriculture department officials before the consignments are sent to the Bihar Industrial Area Development Authority (Biada) facility at Sikandarpur in Bihta near Patna. There, the mangoes undergo sorting, grading, and packing into gift boxes weighing 5-6 kgs. The gift packs will then be sent to Bihar Bhawan in Delhi for distribution among dignitaries on behalf of the Bihar government.
The Motive
The aim is to showcase the state's unique GI-tagged Jardalu mangoes, which have emerged as a symbol of both Bhagalpur and Bihar.
When Did the Jardalu Mango Receive Its GI Tag?
This variety received its Geographical Indication (GI) tag on March 28, 2018. The GI registration recognized the mango's unique aroma, flavor, and strong association with the Bhagalpur region of Bihar. It is known for its distinctive aroma, light yellow color, juicy pulp, and sweet-tangy flavor.
