Emerging Opportunities for High-Value Fruit Crops in Bihar

Bihar is blessed with varied agroclimatic conditions, fertile soils and availability of agricultural labours; hence, it possesses considerable potential for developing a diversified fruit cultivation. Mango, litchi, banana and guava are important components of the state's horticultural economy. However, the increasing demand for premium fruits and changing consumer preferences and awareness about nutraceuticals importance of non-traditional fruits have created new opportunities for high-value fruit cultivation. The important new non-traditional fruit crops being grown are strawberry, dragon fruit, avocado, apple ber, pear, apple and plum. Modern propagation methods, precision irrigation, protected cultivation, post-harvest management and value addition can further strengthen the profitability of new non-traditional fruit crops production.