KATIHAR, June 9 -- Entrepreneurs and innovators in Seemanchal are cashing in on the popularity of 'Brand Modi.' From makhana to mangoes, they are leveraging the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to market their products. "In 2019, I had the chance to hear PM Modi speak in Katihar during electioneering, where he projected makhana as a symbol of future growth," said 27-year-old Gulfaraz, a resident of Charkhi village in Katihar's Kodha block. "That inspired me to brand makhana with his name." Gulfaraz launched 'Modi Makhana' on September 17, 2020, coinciding with Modi's birthday. "It wasn't easy to establish makhana as a brand after Modi, but I persevered," he shared. "Today, I'm proud to tell you that I showcased my company, MOSO International Private Limited, and our brand Modi Makhana at the International Food and Drink Event (IFE) held at Excel London from March 17 to 19 this year." An engineer by training, Gulfaraz left his job to pursue his entrepreneurial dream. Seemanchal and Kosi have become hubs for makhana cultivation in recent years, spanning over 36,000 hectares. Bihar produces 90% of India's makhana, with Seemanchal and Kosi contributing 70% of that share. According to the Horticulture Department, of the 28,373.06 tonnes of makhana produced in Bihar, 23,193.54 tonnes come from these two regions. Similarly, Kalidas Banerjee, a 60-year-old progressive farmer from Rautara village in Katihar, has named one of his mango varieties after Modi. Known locally as the 'Mango Man,' Banerjee said, "I have registered the variety as Modi Aam (Modi Mango). Modiji is a leader of the masses and a global icon. His personality inspires great pride in us." "Prime Minister Modi is incredibly popular here, and his words and actions have a significant impact," Banerjee said. "In Seemanchal, branding products with Modi's name is transforming people's fortunes."...