Why are Bhagalpur's Jardalu Mangoes presented to the President of India almost every year

Mango season is in its full swing, and while the buzz around the popularity of Indian mango varieties like Alphanso, Hapus, and Langra continues to rule the internet, a lesser-known variety is making its way to the top brass of the Indian political system.

Scroll down to read the details.According to a TOI city report, more than 125 quintals of the famed GI-tagged Jardalu mangoes from Bhagalpur are being dispatched to the country's top dignitaries, including the President of India, Vice President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, Rajya Sabha Chairman, CMs, and other VVIPs.

What makes this mango popular

The report states that the exclusive mango variety recently gained further popularity after the PM praised them in his monthly programme, 'Mann Ki Baat,' on June 1.

He mentioned that the fruit's distinctive aroma and sweetness can be identified from a distance. He also cited Jardalu mangoes as an example of local products successfully reaching global markets and referred to the country's growing mango economy.

How are they being sent to VVIPs

The TOI report clearly mentions that the freshly harvested Jardalu mangoes are being packed in plastic boxes at Madhuban Farm in Maheshi-Tilakpur village under Sultanganj block.

The process is supervised by agriculture department officials before the consignments are sent to the Bihar Industrial Area Development Authority (Biada) facility at Sikandarpur in Bihta near Patna. Here, the mangoes will undergo sorting, grading, and packing into gift boxes weighing 5-6 kgs.

The report also mentions that the gift packs will be sent to Bihar Bhawan in Delhi for distribution among dignitaries on behalf of the Bihar government.

What is the motive

The aim here is to showcase the state's unique GI-tagged Jardalu mangoes, which have emerged as a symbol of both Bhagalpur and Bihar.

When did the Jardalu Mango receive its GI tag?

This variety received its Geographical Indication (GI) tag on 28 March 2018. The GI registration recognized the mango's unique aroma, flavor, and strong association with the Bhagalpur region of Bihar. It is known for its distinctive aroma, light yellow colour, juicy pulp, and sweet-tangy flavour.