Author: Bihar Say | Amrita |

PM Modi Turns the Spotlight on Makhana — Bihar’s ₹475 Crore Gamechanger

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the National Makhana Board in Purnea, Bihar, on Monday, he didn’t just launch an institution—he ignited a revolution. Announced in the Union Budget 2025, this board comes with a clear purpose: to scale makhana production, processing, and exports. The Centre has greenlit nearly ₹475 crore for this sector.

What the Board Will Do

• Firstly, the board will raise production standards.

• Secondly, it will improve post-harvest management—so less wastage, better quality.

• Thirdly, it plans to introduce new technologies, expand value-addition, and strengthen marketing and export linkages.

• Moreover, the board will back farmer-producer organisations and connect farmers with relevant central schemes.

PM Modi’s Personal Stamp

Modiji doesn’t just speak about makhana—he eats it. “I eat makhana at least 300 out of 365 days a year,” he said, underscoring its value as a health food and export commodity. His personal endorsement adds credibility and momentum to this initiative.

What Is Makhana — The “Black Diamond” of Bihar

Makhana, or fox nut (botanically Euryale ferox), grows in wetlands and ponds. Its seeds are small and dark before processing. Once popped, they turn white—hence sometimes called the “Black Diamond.” The Mithila variety from Bihar has deep cultural roots and ritual importance.

Health Benefits: Why It’s a Superfood

Makhana ticks many boxes:

• Low in calories and fat, yet rich in plant-based protein and dietary fibre.

• Full of minerals like magnesium, potassium, phosphorus.

• Packed with antioxidants.

• Gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Health-conscious consumers globally are demanding such foods. Thus, it fits perfectly in modern diets.

How Makhana Is Produced

To grow makhana, farmers cultivate it in stagnant ponds and wetlands. They harvest spiky pods by wading in shallow waters. Then they dry the seeds, roast them at high heat, and pop them into the familiar white kernels. The process remains labour-intensive and demands local know-how. It also sustains livelihoods across Bihar’s Mithilanchal and Seemanchal.

Export Push & Market Opportunities

• Bihar contributes about 90% of India’s makhana output.

• GI-tagged Mithila Makhana already reaches overseas markets.

• Recently, a seven-metric-ton consignment shipped off to New Zealand, Canada, and the United States under government facilitation.

• Higher quality grading, ethical sourcing, better branding—these could allow farmer incomes to soar.

Economic Case for Rural Bihar

Several districts—Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sitamarhi, Saharsa, Katihar, Purnea, Supaul, Kishanganj, and Araria—already possess the wetland ecology and expertise to cultivate makhana. With formalised value chains, improved packaging, and exports, the ₹475-crore plan intends to modernise processing units, build better storage facilities, and support cooperatives.

What To Watch Going Forward

• First, keep an eye on the Board’s policy framework: price support, export incentives, and processing standards.

• Then, monitor whether funds are released on time and adopted by producer groups.

• Also watch how quickly new post-harvest methods get traction among farmers.

If all this aligns well, makhana could become Bihar’s signature export.

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