Patna: The three-day Mango Festival 2026 concluded on Sunday with Bihar Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha outlining an ambitious roadmap to position the state as a leading centre for fruit cultivation and horticultural development.
Addressing the closing ceremony, he said the festival represented far more than a celebration of mangoes, describing it as a reflection of Bihar’s agricultural strength, horticultural potential and the talent of its farming community.
In a major announcement, the minister said the Agriculture Department, through the Directorate of Horticulture, would prepare a plan to establish a special model orchard in every district to preserve and promote mango varieties that are gradually disappearing.
Focus on Horticulture Growth
He said Bihar’s economy continues to be deeply rooted in agriculture, making farmers central to the state’s development journey.
He said the government is working to make farming more profitable, technology-driven and attractive to young people as part of its broader vision for a developed Bihar.
“Mango is not only a fruit but also an important symbol of Bihar’s identity, culture and economic strength,” he said.
The minister highlighted the growing national and international recognition of Bihar’s premium mango varieties, including Bhagalpur’s Zardalu and Digha’s Dudhiya Maldah.
More than 53 mango varieties were showcased during the festival by agricultural scientists and Bihar Agricultural University, drawing significant public interest.
Youth, Technology and Agri-Entrepreneurship
Calling farmers “entrepreneurs and innovators”, Sinha said Bihar is witnessing expanding opportunities in sectors such as litchi, makhana, mushroom, honey, fruit and vegetable production.
He urged young people to explore careers and business opportunities in food processing, agribusiness, agri-startups, drone technology and agricultural exports.
Modern agricultural technologies emerged as one of the festival’s key attractions. Demonstrations included the Plantix mobile application and artificial intelligence-based tools that help farmers identify crop diseases and pest attacks and access timely solutions.
According to the minister, such innovations are accelerating Bihar’s transition towards digital agriculture.
Push for Natural Farming
The minister appealed to farmers to adopt natural farming practices and ensure the balanced use of fertilisers and pesticides.
He also advised against the use of harmful substances such as carbide for fruit ripening, stressing the need to build a safe and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.
Strong Public Participation
Organisers said the festival generated nearly Rs 20 lakh in fruit and plant sales during the three-day event. More than 14,000 people attended the festival.
Sinha also praised the enthusiastic participation of children and young people in various competitions organised during the event, saying their growing interest in agriculture and horticulture could drive Bihar’s next agricultural transformation.
The minister congratulated the Agriculture Department, Directorate of Horticulture, BAMETI, agricultural universities, scientists, entrepreneurs, media representatives and farmers for the successful organisation of the festival.
Reaffirming the government’s vision, he said Bihar would continue efforts to emerge as the country’s fruit cultivation capital while expanding the global reach of its agricultural products.
Among those present at the closing ceremony were Bihar Legislative Assembly Speaker Dr Prem Kumar, Alinagar MLA Maithili Thakur, farmer entrepreneur Kisan Chachi and a large number of farmers.
