Muzaffarpur: The famed Shahi litchi grown in Muzaffarpur is set to expand its footprint in global markets this season, with shipments planned for Europe, Dubai and Canada. Authorities and exporters say preparations have intensified to strengthen logistics and ensure the fruit meets international quality standards.
As part of the initiative, litchi growers held consultations with technical experts from exporting agency Superplum, focusing on advanced orchard management and improved post-harvest practices. The discussions centred on enhancing fruit quality, reducing spoilage and aligning production with export specifications.
Infrastructure upgrades are also underway, with two modern pack houses being developed in Bandra block. Each facility is expected to handle 15–20 tonnes of fruit, enabling a combined daily supply of 30–35 tonnes for domestic distribution and overseas shipments. The expansion marks a significant jump from last year’s export volume of 12–15 tonnes per day, with stakeholders targeting more than double the output this season.
Export consignments will be routed through Darbhanga Airport and Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, improving transit time and preserving freshness. Agricultural scientists will also conduct regular orchard inspections, providing technical guidance to farmers throughout the growing cycle to ensure compliance with export standards.
Baccha Prasad Singh, president of the Bihar Litchi Growers Association, said wider international access is expected to deliver better price realisation and higher incomes for farmers. He added that close collaboration between exporters and growers over the past six years has begun to yield tangible results, with participation from dozens of farmers at the latest meeting signalling growing confidence in the export drive.
