Sheohar: From the orchards of Sheohar to the markets of Dubai, Qatar, and Malaysia — the journey of the luscious Shahi litchi is not just a tale of taste but also one of transformation. For the second consecutive year, litchi growers from the Ambakala area are exporting their produce to international destinations, earning both global recognition and financial upliftment.
In the heart of Sheohar, about 400 litchi trees across 10 acres are expected to yield eight tonnes of fruit this season. The produce is part of a five-year export agreement between local farmers and Muzaffarpur-based exporter Umashankar Singh, who has further tied up with international traders to distribute the litchis across the Gulf and Southeast Asia.
“This is not just fruit, it is our future,” said Ram Dayal Sah, a second-generation farmer from Ambakala. His father, Kapoorchand Sah, began cultivating litchi three decades ago, sourcing Shahi litchi plants from nurseries across India. Today, locals affectionately refer to the variety grown here as ‘Kapoor Shahi Litchi’, a tribute to its founder and its unique flavour profile.
From Orchards to Opportunity
The exports have turned the tide for four primary litchi growers in the region — Ramdular Sah, Ram Swarth Sah, Ram Balak Sah, and Ram Dayal Sah — who together now earn profits of up to ₹4 lakh annually. Beyond profits, the trade has generated significant local employment. Over 100 people, including 50 women, are engaged during the peak season in plucking and packing operations, particularly in the Ambakala orchards.
“This seasonal work has become a dependable source of income for women in our village,” said one of the women workers, who packs the fruits bound for air cargo.
Past Glory and Present Struggles
Sheohar once boasted more than 50 litchi orchards. However, frequent floods, erratic weather, and the absence of sustained government support have reduced that number drastically. “We have survived without any training or assistance from the administration. But with the right support, this fruit can truly change our lives,” said Ram Swarth Sah, echoing a common sentiment among the farmers.
Despite the challenges, the reputation of Sheohar’s litchis remains strong. Traders from Punjab, Chandigarh, and Delhi visit the district every season to procure the fruit, which is then shipped overseas.
A Call for Support
While the sweet success story of Sheohar’s litchis is undeniable, farmers remain hopeful that their efforts will draw the attention of policymakers. “If the government can invest in cold storage, training, and weather-resilient infrastructure, then litchi cultivation could flourish even more,” said Ram Balak Sah.
With international demand surging and traditional farming knowledge backing it, Sheohar’s Shahi litchi is not just exporting fruit—it’s exporting hope, resilience, and the flavor of Bihar to the world.
