Patna High Court Seeks Detailed Data from Nitish Government on Mango and Litchi Exports from Bihar

The Patna High Court has directed the Bihar government to submit detailed and authentic data regarding the export of horticultural produce—particularly mangoes and litchis—from the state. The court sought clarity on the infrastructure developed so far to promote the export of these high-value fruits, which are among Bihar’s key agricultural strengths.

A Division Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice and Justice Alok Kumar Pandey passed the order while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Maurya Vijay Chandra. The Bench instructed the Principal Secretary, Agriculture Department, and the Director of Horticulture to place before the court the actual quantities of mangoes and litchis exported from Bihar during recent agricultural seasons.

Court Questions Export Readiness and Infrastructure

The High Court observed that while Bihar is a major producer of mangoes and litchis, there must be concrete data and visible infrastructure to support export-oriented growth. The court asked the state to explain what facilities—such as cold chains, grading units, pack houses, and logistics support—have been established to boost horticulture exports.

PIL Demands Skill Development and Cargo Facilities

The PIL seeks directions to both the Central and State governments to launch skill development programs for horticulture professionals in Bihar. It also calls for the establishment of dedicated cargo handling facilities at state airports to facilitate the export of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Additionally, the petitioner urged the court to direct the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) to ensure registration of Bihar’s horticulture experts on its Hortinet platform, which tracks region-wise availability of fresh seasonal produce and supports export planning.

State’s Earlier Claims Under Scrutiny

The court’s intervention comes in the backdrop of statements made in 2024 by Agriculture Minister Mangal Pandey, who had said that Bihar produces 15.84 lakh metric tonnes of mangoes, ranking third in the country in mango production. He also claimed that the state exports around 1,200 metric tonnes of fresh mangoes, mainly to the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and New Zealand, with APEDA’s support.

The High Court has now asked the state to substantiate such claims with verified export data.

Next Hearing on January 29

The matter has been listed for further hearing on January 29, when the court will review the data submitted by the state government and assess the progress made toward strengthening Bihar’s horticulture export ecosystem.

The case is expected to have significant implications for farmers, exporters, and policy planners, as it puts a spotlight on Bihar’s untapped potential in global fruit markets.