Golden Mangoes of Jardalu: The Regal, Gilded Delight from Bihar, Steeped in Ancient Heritage
In the heart of Bihar, India, the Jardalu mango, a flavourful and distinctive fruit, has long been celebrated during local festivals and fairs. This iconic mango, known for its light yellow skin, juicy, fiberless pulp, and a sweet, tangy flavour with a hint of spice, stands as a testament to India's diverse and flavourful produce.
The Jardalu mango received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2018, protecting its identity and enhancing its marketability. This recognition has propelled the Jardalu mango onto the global stage, with the first commercial consignment exported to the United Kingdom in June 2021. However, the journey of the Jardalu mango is not without challenges.
Climate change and inadequate infrastructure primarily pose threats to its cultivation in Bhagalpur. Unpredictable rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and increased incidence of pests and diseases can reduce yield and fruit quality. Additionally, limited cold storage, processing units, and efficient distribution networks cause post-harvest losses and restrict market access for farmers.
Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to innovate and address these issues. Agri business incubators such as SABOUR AGRI INCUBATORS (SABAGRIS) are supporting startups like Patnakart, exploring solutions for better handling, marketing, and possibly climate-resilient farming practices.
The export of GI-certified Jardalu mangoes to the United Kingdom was supported by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Bihar government. The international recognition of Jardalu mangoes has instilled a sense of pride among the farming community in Bhagalpur, and has the potential to positively impact local farmers economically.
Over the years, the Jardalu mango has become synonymous with Bhagalpur's identity and is cherished for its distinctive flavour and historical significance. Its prominence has inspired culinary innovations in traditional and contemporary dishes. The first Jardalu mango sapling, planted between 1810 and 1820, still stands in Tagepur village, a testament to the resilience and innovation of the region's farming community.
The Jardalu mango's journey reflects the resilience and innovation of the region's farming community, and despite the challenges posed by climate change and inadequate infrastructure, its future remains bright. With continued support and innovation, the Jardalu mango will continue to be a source of pride for Bhagalpur and a delight for mango lovers around the world.
[1] For more precise details on climate-induced agronomic challenges or infrastructure gaps specific to Jardalu mango in Bhagalpur, further targeted research or local agricultural reports would be necessary.
[1] The export of Jardalu mangoes signifies a significant shift in the home-and-garden practices of Bhagalpur farmers, as they venture into international food-and-drink markets.
[2] In the realm of education-and-self-development, local farming communities in Bhagalpur witness improvement as they gain knowledge about modern farming techniques, climate-resilient agriculture, and market trends through agri-business incubators like SABOUR AGRI INCUBATORS (SABAGRIS).
