G.I. Products of Bihar

India

March 11, 2025

Complete set of 5 nos. of postage stamps on Bihar’s rich natural heritage : Bhagalpuri Zardalu mango, Katarni Rice, Magahi Paan, Mithila Makhana and Shahi Litchi of Bihar :

Issued by India

Issued on Mar 11, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release commemorative postage stamps for G.I. Products of Bihar, paying tribute to Bihar’s rich natural heritage.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Mr. Anuj Kumar

Type : Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (5)

Stamps Printed : 302820 (5)

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About :

Bhagalpuri Zardalu :
- Bhagalpuri Zardalu Mango is a prized variety known for its creamy yellow pulp, delightful aroma and sweet flavor. Cultivated in Bhagalpur and surrounding districts, it received a GI tag No- 551 for its unique qualities. The mango trees have a rounded canopy, and the fruits are medium-sized (186-265g) with smooth, thin peels. Its sweetness (TSS 22.08-22.67° Brix) and low fiber content make it highly sought after. The region’s alluvial soil and sub-humid climate create the perfect conditions for its cultivation. Zardalu Mango is recognized for its long shelf life, moderate resistance to pests, and heavy yield. Its unique appearance and exceptional taste have made it a prominent export product.
Katarni Rice :
- Katarni Rice, famous for its aroma and taste, is grown in Bhagalpur, Banka and Munger districts. Its slender grains and aromatic flavor make it ideal for preparing beaten rice (Chura) during festivals. Katarni is tall (140-160 cm) and photoperiod-sensitive, flowering in October and maturing by December. With a 25-30 t/ha yield, it requires specific conditions, including fertile soils and traditional irrigation methods. The GI tag granted in 2018 (No. 553) has helped protect its identity and promote purity. Efforts by Bihar Agricultural University have improved its yield and reduced its susceptibility to lodging. Katarni rice is deeply embedded in Bihar’s culinary and cultural heritage.
Magahi Paan :
- Magahi Paan, a premium betelvine, is cultivated in Nawada, Nalanda, Gaya and Aurangabad districts of Bihar. Renowned for its softness, pungency and non-fibrous texture, it has earned a GI tag (No. 554). The leaves are rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, contributing to high medicinal value. Magahi Paan’s essential oils, such as chavicol and eugenol, possess antiseptic and stimulant properties. With its shiny, dark-green leaves and high yield of 50-60 lakh leaves per hectare annually, this variety is distinct for its prolonged shelf life of 15-20 days. Traditionally, it is used for mouth freshening and medicinal purposes, making it an integral part of local culture.
Mithila Makhana :
- Mithila Makhana, derived from Euryale ferox, is a ceremonial and nutritional delicacy of Bihar. it received a GI tag No- 696, cultivated mainly in Mithilanchal, this aquatic crop is revered for its religious and cultural significance. Known as ‘Black Diamond’ when raw and ‘White Ball’ when popped, it is rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and essential minerals. Makhana has medicinal properties beneficial for respiratory, circulatory, and digestive health. Bihar accounts for 80-85% of India’s production, with Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Purnea being major hubs. It grows in ponds, wetlands, and chaurs, requiring specific climatic and soil conditions. With a yield of 2.5-3.0 t/ha, Makhana provides livelihood to thousands of farmers. The GI tag ensures its authenticity and promotes its cultural legacy.
Shahi Litchi of Bihar :
- Shahi Litchi, a premium variety, is grown in Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Vaishali, and surrounding regions of Bihar. it received a GI tag No- 552, for its crimson-red skin, high pulp-to-seed ratio, and juicy texture, it is a favorite summer fruit. The plant is semi-vigorous, reaching heights of 6-10 meters with dense foliage. Fruits mature early, from May to June, and are rich in vitamins C and minerals. With 58-67% pulp content and a sugar-acid blend, it is widely appreciated for its flavor. The GI tag for Shahi Litchi highlights its unique attributes, including high yield (80-135 kg/tree). Its distinctiveness lies in its attractive color, aroma, and mouth-watering taste.
Text : Referenced from content provided by the proponent.