Makhana, also known as fox nuts or Gorgon nuts, is gaining global recognition as a superfood packed with nutrition and health benefits. Predominantly cultivated in Bihar, India, this aquatic crop has long been a staple in snacks, sweets and religious offerings. With Bihar producing over 80% of India’s total makhana yield, the state is leading the charge in transforming this traditional crop into an economic powerhouse. To further boost its cultivation, processing and export, the Bihar government has taken a groundbreaking step—the establishment of the Makhana Board.
What is the Makhana Board?
The Makhana Board of Bihar is a government initiative focused on promoting the production, marketing, and value addition of makhana. This board aims to address challenges faced by farmers and processors while offering technical, financial and infrastructural support to uplift the industry.
Key Highlights from Budget 2025:
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the creation of the Makhana Board in the Union Budget 2025.
- The board will enhance makhana production in Bihar and processing and value addition of makhana as well.
- It will provide handholding support and introduce trade-related technologies to farmers and entrepreneurs.
Objectives of the Makhana Board
The Makhana Board is dedicated to transforming the industry through several focused initiatives:
✅ Enhancing Production: Promoting scientific farming techniques to improve yield and quality.
✅ Research & Development: Collaborating with institutions like ICAR and Bihar Agricultural University to develop better seed varieties and pest control methods.
✅ Farmer Support: Providing financial assistance, training, and access to modern agricultural technology.
✅ Marketing & Export Promotion: Strengthening the makhana supply chain and ensuring farmers receive better prices.
✅ Processing & Value Addition: Encouraging the production of value-added makhana products such as roasted makhana, makhana kheer and makhana flour.
✅ Subsidies & Loans: Offering financial incentives to set up makhana processing units and expand market reach.
Key Initiatives of the Makhana Board
🔹 Financial Assistance & Subsidies
- The Bihar government provides subsidies for makhana farming to encourage wider cultivation.
- Loans and financial aid are available for setting up processing units and storage facilities.
🔹 Training & Skill Development
- Training programs on advanced cultivation techniques like pond-based and field-based farming.
- Workshops for entrepreneurs on processing and marketing makhana-based products.
🔹 Research & Innovation
- Collaboration with Bihar Agricultural University and ICAR to develop high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties.
- Promotion of organic makhana farming to increase global market potential.
🔹 Infrastructure Development
- Establishment of cold storage and warehouse facilities to minimize post-harvest losses.
- Encouraging food processing industries to manufacture value-added makhana products.
🔹 Market Linkages & Export Promotion
- Helping farmers connect with domestic and international buyers.
- Branding Bihar’s makhana as a global superfood through strategic marketing.
Government-backed e-commerce platforms for direct farmer-to-consumer sales.
How Farmers Benefit from the Makhana Board
Benefits | Details |
Financial Support | Subsidies for seeds, fertilizers, and machinery |
Training & Education | Workshops on best farming practices |
Better Market Prices | Government procurement and fair pricing policies |
Loan & Credit Assistance | Easy access to agricultural loans |
Storage & Processing | Improved facilities to prevent spoilage and wastage |
Export Opportunities | Support in exporting makhana to international markets |
Challenges Faced by the Makhana Industry in Bihar
Despite government efforts, the makhana industry faces several hurdles:
⚠️ Traditional Cultivation Methods: Many farmers still use outdated techniques, leading to lower yields.
⚠️ Lack of Mechanization: Harvesting and processing remain labor-intensive, increasing production costs.
⚠️ Middlemen Exploitation: Farmers struggle to get fair prices due to limited direct market access.
⚠️ Storage Issues: Proper storage facilities are insufficient, affecting makhana quality and longevity.
⚠️ Limited Global Awareness: Compared to other superfoods, makhana has lower international recognition.
Future Prospects and Government Support
To tackle these challenges and boost makhana production, the Bihar government is implementing several measures:
✅ New Subsidies & Insurance Schemes for farmers to mitigate risks.
✅ Increased Investment in R&D to develop climate-resistant makhana varieties.
✅ Encouragement of Startups in the makhana processing sector through the Bihar Startup Policy.
✅ International Branding Efforts to establish makhana as a premium export product.
The Makhana Board of Bihar is a game-changer, empowering farmers and boosting the state’s economy. As the global demand for healthy snacks rises, makhana has the potential to emerge as a major export commodity. With sustained government support, technological advancements and strong market linkages, Bihar’s makhana industry is poised for a bright future.
If you are a farmer or entrepreneur interested in makhana production, don’t hesitate to connect with the Bihar Makhana Board for guidance, training and financial support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Who can benefit from the Makhana Board?
✔️ Farmers, small business owners, food processors and exporters dealing with makhana.
❓ How can I apply for subsidies under the Makhana Board?
✔️ You can apply through the official Bihar Agriculture Department website or visit your nearest agricultural office.
❓ Is makhana farming profitable?
✔️ Yes! With proper techniques and government support, makhana farming can yield high profits due to increasing demand.
❓ Can I start a makhana processing business in Bihar?
✔️ Absolutely! The Makhana Board offers financial assistance for setting up processing units.
