Patna: From the famed Zardalu of Bhagalpur to the ever-popular Langra and Dashehari, Bihar’s rich mango diversity will be on display as the state horticulture directorate gears up to host a three-day Aam Mahotsav (Mango Festival) at the Bihar Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (BAMETI) in Patna from June 19 to 21.According to the horticulture department on Wednesday, the festival will showcase dozens of mango varieties grown across Bihar while hosting competitions, awareness programmes and business interactions aimed at promoting mango cultivation, value addition and marketing.The festival will feature an exhibition of mango varieties, including Malda, Zardalu, Gulabkhas, Zarda Bombay, Langra, Dashehari, Krishnabhog, Alphonso, Husn-e-Aara, Benazir, Fazli and Sipia. Visitors will also get an opportunity to learn about recent advances in mango cultivation and interact with stakeholders associated with the mango value chain.The event will include discussions on expanding trade in mangoes and mango-based products, along with displays and sales of mango-based food items. A range of activities has also been planned for visitors, including the “Aam Khao aur Inaam Pao” contest, mango carving competitions, quizzes and painting contests for children. Winners will be awarded prizes.Officials said the festival is intended to provide a common platform for growers, entrepreneurs and consumers while highlighting Bihar’s rich mango heritage and encouraging the adoption of improved cultivation practices.To facilitate entry, the department has introduced a QR code-based registration system. Visitors can scan the QR code and complete registration by entering their name and mobile number. Registration and entry to the festival will be free of cost.The agriculture department said the initiative is expected to support mango growers and contribute to the growth of the state’s horticulture sector by promoting innovation, strengthening market linkages and increasing public awareness about mango cultivation.The previous edition of the festival, held in 2025 and inaugurated by former CM Nitish Kumar, featured more than 5,000 mangoes sourced from across the state and produced by over 800 farmers.
