Digha, an area in Patna, the capital of Bihar, is renowned for its uniquely flavored Dudhia Malda mango. However, the number of these traditional mango trees is rapidly declining due to urbanization and other factors, posing an existential threat to this distinctive variety. Once a hallmark of the local orchards, the count of Dudhia Malda mango trees has now dwindled to approximately 100.

The mango earned its 'Dudhia' (milky) name because farmers from the Diara region historically used leftover milk to irrigate these trees in Patna. Another intriguing story, shared by writer and litterateur Ravi Shankar Upadhyay, attributes the name to Nawab Fida Hussain, who reportedly irrigated these plants with surplus milk. When the fruit emerged, it exuded a milky substance, thus christening it Dudhia Malda. Upadhyay also states that this mango is originally a Multani breed, brought from Shah Faisal of Pakistan by Nawab Fida Hussain and planted in Digha, Patna.

Key characteristics of the Dudhia Malda mango include its milky-white pulp, thin skin, and sweet, juicy taste. Upon ripening, it turns yellow, with each mango weighing between 250-350 grams. The fertile soil of Digha and natural pest control due to annual floods were significant contributors to its superior quality.

Currently, urbanization, pests, diseases, and waterlogging have drastically reduced the number of trees. According to agricultural expert Naiyar Hussain, many trees were cut down for the construction of Marine Drive and apartments. This decline has also impacted production; over 500 metric tons were produced in 2025, which dropped to approximately 300 metric tons in 2026.

Recognizing this critical situation, the Bihar government has initiated a significant effort to preserve this unique heritage. Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha announced that an advanced center will be established in Digha, Patna, at a cost of ₹1.30 crore for the conservation and promotion of the traditional Dudhia Malda mango. This center, funded under the Prime Minister's National Agricultural Development Scheme, will be set up in the financial year 2026-27, aiming to prevent the extinction of this special mango variety and boost its production.