Patna: The Bihar government will provide comprehensive assistance to farmers and private investors willing to develop orchards and expand horticulture projects across the state, agriculture minister Ramkripal Yadav has said. Speaking at a two-day workshop in Patna under the Cluster Development Programme, the minister underlined the state’s growing reputation for high-value, GI-certified produce and described horticulture as a “major opportunity” for rural income growth.
Addressing stakeholders on Friday, Yadav said products such as Shahi Litchi, Mithila Makhana and Jardalu mango have strengthened Bihar’s standing in domestic and international markets. The Geographical Indication (GI) status attached to these crops, he noted, has boosted consumer confidence in their quality and authenticity, creating favourable conditions for orchard-based investments.
“The state holds significant potential in the horticulture sector,” Yadav said. “Those who wish to invest in orchard development and related ventures will receive full support from the government.” He added that cluster-based farming would improve productivity, enable better marketing linkages and help ensure a steady rise in farmers’ incomes.
Narmadeshwar Lal, principal secretary of the agriculture department, said the government is prioritising high-value horticultural crops that can generate stronger returns for cultivators. District-level clusters have been identified based on agro-climatic suitability, with a focus on crop specialisation to maximise output and profitability.
According to horticulture director Abhishek Kumar, vegetable clusters have taken shape in Patna, Vaishali and Samastipur, while makhana cultivation is concentrated in the Kosi and Mithilanchal regions. Rohtas and Kaimur districts are being developed as hubs for strawberry and dragon fruit cultivation, reflecting efforts to diversify beyond traditional crops.
The workshop drew participation from the National Horticulture Board, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, investors, banks and farmer producer organisations. Officials said the collaborative approach aims to strengthen infrastructure, improve access to finance and create a more resilient horticulture ecosystem across Bihar.
