Author: Bihar Say | Amrita | ₹72,750 Per Hectare Subsidy: Bihar Expands Makhana Farming Across 16 Districts in 2026 Bihar Government Launches Large-Scale Makhana Farming Initiative The Bihar
The Bihar government has announced a major boost for farmers ahead of 2026.
The state will promote large-scale cultivation of Makhana (Mithila Makhana) under a new agricultural initiative.
Under the Integrated Horticulture Development Mission, the government plans to bring 1,500 hectares under Makhana cultivation.
This expansion will cover 16 districts across Bihar.
More importantly, farmers will receive a 75 percent subsidy on cultivation costs.
The subsidy amounts to ₹72,750 per hectare, making the scheme one of the most generous in the state’s horticulture sector.
As a result, the initiative aims to increase farmer income and strengthen Bihar’s agricultural economy.
Earlier, Makhana farming remained limited to a few traditional regions.
However, the new plan expands cultivation across key districts.
The selected districts include Darbhanga, Madhubani, Samastipur, and Purnia.
Among them, Samastipur district has received a target of 20 hectares.
Additionally, the government will promote improved seed varieties.
This step will help enhance both yield and quality.
Because of this structured approach, the state expects higher production and better market access.
The government has fixed the cost of cultivation at ₹97,000 per hectare.
Out of this, farmers will receive ₹72,750 as subsidy.
The payment will be released in two instalments:
₹36,375 will be paid during the 2025–26 financial year
The remaining amount will be credited in the following year
This phased payment system reduces financial pressure on farmers.
At the same time, it ensures accountability.
Notably, the subsidy will be transferred through a transparent, direct-payment mechanism.
Farmers must apply through the official horticulture department portal.
The application process is entirely online.
Importantly, the scheme follows a first-come, first-served model.
New farmers will receive priority during selection.
Once registered, eligible farmers can track their application digitally.
Therefore, the system eliminates intermediaries and delays.
This digital approach ensures fairness and efficiency.
Makhana holds both cultural and economic significance in Bihar.
It is widely recognised as a nutrient-rich superfood.
Moreover, domestic and global demand continues to rise.
Because of this, Makhana offers strong income potential for farmers.
By expanding cultivation, Bihar aims to create a sustainable agri-value chain.
This strategy also supports rural employment and export growth.
Consequently, the initiative aligns with long-term agricultural development goals.
Eligible farmers can apply for the Makhana farming subsidy through the official Horticulture Department portal of the Bihar Government.
👉 Registration & Application Portal:
https://horticulture.bihar.gov.in
Farmers must complete online registration, select the Makhana cultivation scheme, and submit required details.
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