Patna, June 16 (UNI) Production and marketing of Neera (palm juice), a natural beverage extracted from palm and date trees, continues to gain momentum in Bihar under the Mukhyamantri Neera Samvardhan Yojana.
Official sources said here on Tuesday that more than 32.66 lakh litres of Neera had been collected across the state by June 14 during the current Neera season (May–August). Of this, 32.55 lakh litres had already been sold, reflecting the growing popularity of the drink among consumers.
To implement the scheme effectively, Neera is being tapped from around 40,862 palm and date trees across Bihar. A total of 9,865 tappers are actively engaged in Neera extraction in both urban and rural areas, while 10,743 tree owners are earning additional income through the initiative.
The state currently has 1,691 temporary and permanent Neera sales counters. In addition, 571 active producer groups are processing Neera into value-added products such as jaggery, peda, tilkut and other health-oriented sweets.
The scheme aims to promote scientific extraction, collection and marketing of Neera while generating rural employment opportunities and providing farmers with an additional source of income. It also seeks to encourage Neera as a nutritious and healthy alternative beverage.
Sources said the initiative is helping strengthen rural livelihoods and expand the market for Neera-based products throughout Bihar.
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