Bihar, a state in eastern India, has several products that have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The Geographical Indication tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or other characteristics that are attributable to that place of origin. By obtaining GI tags, these products are protected from unauthorized use, and their unique qualities and origin are recognized and celebrated. In this article let us explore the products that have got the geographical indication of Bihar.
Table of Contents
List of GI Tag Bihar
Here is a list of Geographical Indication (GI) Tag products from Bihar. These products are unique to the state of Bihar and have gained recognition and protection through the GI tag. The GI tag not only ensures the authenticity of the product but also helps in promoting its marketability and contributing to the state’s economy.
S. No. | GI Tag | Description |
1. | Silao Khaja | Food Stuff |
2. | Madhubani Paintings | Handicraft |
3. | Shahi Litchi of Bihar | Agriculture |
4. | Applique work of Bihar | Handicraft |
5. | Maghai Paan | Agriculture |
6. | Sikki Grass Product of Bihar | Handicraft |
7. | Katarni Rice | Agriculture |
8. | Bhagalpur Silk | Handicraft |
9. | Bhagalpur Zardalu mango | Agriculture |
10. | Applique work of Bihar Logo | Handicraft |
11. | Sujini Embroidery work of Bihar logo | Handicraft |
12. | Sikki Grass Products of Bihar logo | Handicraft |
13. | Mithila Makhana | Agriculture |
Check the latest updates below-
Recent GI Tag Bihar
With Bihar’s Mithila Makhana getting the Geographical Indication Registry (GI) tag, the fifth product has got international recognition. Earlier in 2016, Zardalu Mango of Bhagalpur, Katrani Paddy, Magahi Paan of Nawada and Shahi Litchi of Muzaffarpur have got GI tag. Bihar produces 80 percent of Makhana in the country. Mostly in Mithila. Therefore, the name of Mithila Makhana was proposed in the Geographical Indication of Makhana crop.
Necessary initiative was taken for geographical indication of Makhana under the guidance of scientists of Agriculture Department and Bihar Agricultural University. After tireless efforts of five years, more than one thousand pages of Makhana’s historical documents were collected and applied for GI tag. The result of this is that there has been success in getting GI tag in the name of Mithila Makhana.
Discover what makes these 5 Bihar agricultural products unique.
Zardalu mangoes of Bhagalpur, Katrani paddy, Magahi paan of Nawada and Shahi litchi of Muzaffarpur were included in the GI tag. After which, in the year 2022, Makhana of Mithila district of Bihar has been included in the GI tag. Bihar has received GI tags for a total of 5 agricultural goods to date. Today we will discuss about the circumstances surrounding the GI label that these agricultural products received in this context. We will also be aware of the area, manufacture, and speciality of these things in addition to this.
- Zardalu of Bhagalpur
The demand for Zardalu mangoes from Bhagalpur has grown steadily since receiving the GI designation. The sweetness of this mango is the key cause behind this. It has a distinct flavour when compared to other mangoes. Zardalu mango is considered one of the most advanced mango kinds in the world. Many countries throughout the world are seeing an increase in demand for Zardalu mango. According to media reports, the news of transporting more than 500 quintals of Zardalu mango abroad from Bhagalpur has come to the fore in the year 2022. At the same time, its price has risen to 7000 rupees this year, from 12 to 1500 rupees previously.
- Katarni rice
Katarni rice is well-known not just in India but also internationally for its distinct scent and flavour. In royal feasts, only parboiled rice is served to guests. Not only that, but its significance has been recognised in Hindu culture. There is no worship without it. This paddy is grown in districts throughout Bihar, including Bhagalpur, Banka, and Munger. Katrani rice from Bihar was designated as a GI product in 2017. Sheared paddy was grown on 1400 acres in 2020-21. The area will be enlarged to 1700 hectares in 2021-22.
- Magahi paan
Due to its distinct feature, Magahi Paan has been included in the GI tag. People who have pyorrhea usually use mouthwash after eating. In this case, due to the Ayurvedic therapeutic benefits of Magahi Paan and its specialisation as a mouth freshener, it has been included in the GI tag.
- Shahi Litchi
Shahi Litchi from Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district has been designated as a GI crop due to its excellent taste and yield. Let me tell you that litchi is grown in Bihar over an area of 32 to 34 thousand hectares. Bihar accounts for 40% of the country’s litchi production. Here, 300 metric tonnes of litchi are produced. Muzaffarpur accounts for 70% of Bihar’s total litchi production. Litchi is grown on an 18 thousand hectare farm in Muzaffarpur.
- Mithila Makhana
Mithila’s Makhana has been given the GI label due to its great taste, nutrition, and natural growing method. Furthermore, Mitlanchal district of Bihar produces 90% of India’s butter. It is grown in the pond. When Mithila Makhana did not receive a GI tag about 5-6 years ago, it was grown on 17750 hectares in Mithila-Kosi. Its land size has grown to 25 thousand hectares as of today. This is something to be proud of for a state like Bihar and its farmers.
FAQs on GI Tag Bihar
Many Bihar products, such as Bhagalpuri Jardalu Mango, Paan Magahi Betel, and Mithila Makhana have been accorded GI status.
Bihar has received GI status for 14 items, including Mithila Makahna, Magahi Paan, Mithila painting, Jardalu types of mangoes from Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur shahi litchi, and Nalanda Silao Khaja.
Sikiya grass is a type of wild grass that grows in the riverine areas of Bihar. It is used to create various handicraft products such as baskets, mats, and wall hangings.
Katarni rice is a traditional variety of rice that is grown in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar. It is known for its long grain, aroma, and unique taste.
Shahi Litchi is a variety of Litchi fruit that is grown in the Muzaffarpur district of Bihar. It is known for its sweet taste and juicy texture.