‘Sabour Bedana’ set to make mark in national, global markets: BAU

Bhagalpur: Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, has developed several improved litchi varieties over the years, including Sabour Madhu, Hybrid-235, Sabour Litchi-1 and Sabour Bedana, with the aim of strengthening Bihar’s presence in domestic and international fruit markets.

Among them, Sabour Bedana, a local selection developed at BAU’s research farms, is being promoted as a premium-quality litchi due to its rich aroma, high pulp content, small seed and comparatively longer shelf life. The variety was released in 1996, but has been improved over the years through scientific research.

BAU vice-chancellor D R Singh said on Wednesday that Sabour Bedana bears bright red fruits with an average weight of 27 grams and yields between 80 kg and 100 kg per tree. The variety records a total soluble solids (TSS) content of 24°Brix, significantly higher than the 15°Brix to 19°Brix found in most standard litchi varieties.

Explaining the significance of the figure, Singh said a TSS level of 24°Brix indicates that the fruit contains about 24% natural sugars and other dissolved solids by weight, giving it exceptional sweetness, minimal tartness and a high sugar-to-acid ratio.

“The variety is distinguished by its very small seed, thin seed coat, heavy pulp and rich candy-like sweetness,” the VC said.

According to BAU, the seed size in Sabour Bedana ranges from 2 grams to 4 grams, while the pulp content accounts for 76% to 80% of the fruit, making it one of the most desirable litchi varieties for consumers.

Bihar is the country’s leading litchi-producing state, contributing nearly 40% of India’s total production. Litchi cultivation provides livelihood opportunities to millions of people through both farm and allied activities, while small and marginal farmers earn additional income from trees grown in homesteads.

Referring to the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, Singh said Bihar’s Shahi Litchi received the recognition in 2018 for its unique quality, aroma and geographical origin associated with the Muzaffarpur region.

He said other important commercial cultivars include Shahi, China, Bedana, Purbi, Mandraji, Large Red, Deshi, Ajhauli, Rose Scented and Kasba. He expressed confidence that Sabour Bedana would establish a strong presence across India and eventually in international fruit markets.

India is the world’s second-largest producer of litchi after China. Other major producing countries include Thailand, Australia, South Africa, Madagascar and the United States.