Bihar Makes History: GI-Tagged Mithila Makhana Sets Sail for Australia in First-Ever Sea Shipment

In a major boost for regional agri-exports, Bihar has dispatched its first sea consignment of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana to Australia. Facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the 18-metric-tonne shipment was sourced directly from Darbhanga farmers—yielding them nearly 18% above prevailing market rates—and flagged off from the irradiation packhouse unit in Bihta, Patna. This direct farmer-to-export initiative highlights the rising international demand for Bihar’s high-value produce while marking a strategic shift toward export-oriented agriculture for the state. Supported by modern processing, quality testing, and cold-chain infrastructure, this milestone sets a benchmark for preparing local produce to meet international standards. APEDA is collaborating with state authorities, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and processors to enhance Bihar’s overall agri-export ecosystem. While Makhana leads this transition, the movement creates a sustainable roadmap for other GI-tagged and regional agricultural products to expand their footprint across global markets.