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Makhana Industry and the Makhana Board
Context : Makhana Industry
India dominates the global makhana market, with Bihar producing 85% of the total yield.
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- Key districts for production: Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sitamarhi, Saharsa, Katihar, Purnia, Supaul, Kishanganj, and Araria.
- Favourable climatic conditions and fertile soil contribute to superior quality.
Growing Global Recognition of Makhana
- Once a staple in Indian households, Makhana (fox nuts, Euryale ferox) has gained popularity as a superfood worldwide.
- Known for its rich nutritional profile, gluten-free nature, and versatility in the health food industry.
- Increasing demand due to health-conscious consumers and preference for plant-based, natural foods.
Bihar’s Dominance in Makhana Production
- Bihar’s makhana received Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2022, recognising its unique quality and traditional cultivation methods. This enhances its market appeal and global branding efforts.
- Cultivation has shifted from traditional pond-based farming to a more efficient field-based system.
- Cultivation area has expanded to 35,000+ hectares, and production has doubled to 56,000+ tonnes.
Rising Demand in Global Markets
- The healthy foods market is growing rapidly, positioning makhana as a strong alternative to traditional snacks.
- Infrastructure boost: Darbhanga and upcoming Purnea airports for better cargo handling. Patna’s new greenfield airport to facilitate exports to US, Europe, and the Middle East.
- The functional food industry incorporates makhana in protein bars, cereals, and gluten-free snacks.
Government Initiatives to Boost Makhana Industry
- Creation of the Makhana Board: Announced in Union Budget 2025-26 to streamline production, standardise quality, enhance branding, and boost exports. Expected to increase production, improve farmer incomes, and strengthen India’s global market dominance.
- One District One Product (ODOP) Scheme: Recognised makhana as a priority product in Bihar. Offers financial assistance, infrastructure support, and training programmes to boost cultivation.
- Support from APEDA and NHM:
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- APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority): Organises trade fairs and facilitates organic and fair trade certifications for global markets.
- National Horticulture Mission (NHM): Provides subsidies for seeds, fertilisers, and irrigation infrastructure to enhance cultivation
- Role of NABARD: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) supports: Financial aid for farmers and entrepreneurs to set up processing units and storage facilities. Reducing post-harvest losses and improving product quality.
- Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) Initiatives: PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY).
- These programmes support small and medium enterprises involved in makhana processing.
- Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF): Provides interest subvention to support makhana value addition. Helps develop farmgate infrastructure and processing ecosystems.
Overcoming Challenges for Industry Growth
- Issues such as limited mechanisation, inconsistent quality, and low global consumer awareness need to be addressed.
- The Makhana Board will drive innovation, ensuring modern processing techniques, superior quality, and wider market reach.
- Focus on public-private partnerships and e-commerce platforms to increase market accessibility.
Future Growth Projections (2035 Targets)
- Makhana cultivation area to expand to 70,000 hectares.
- Seed production to double in three years.
- Popped makhana production to rise from 23,000 MT to 78,000 MT.
- Farmer-level sector value to grow from ₹550 crore to ₹3,900 crore.
- The market value of popped makhanas to increase from ₹2,000 crore to ₹13,260 crore.
- Employment in farming increased from 20,000 to 50,000 families.
- Post-production value chain jobs to rise from 5,00,000 to 7,00,000 individuals.
Makhana’s Future
- Once a traditional Indian snack, now a global superfood with immense economic and nutritional value.
- The Makhana Board marks a transformative step in unlocking the sector’s full potential.
- Rising demand for healthy and functional foods presents new opportunities for farmers, exporters, and investors.
Strengthening India’s position as the world leader in makhana production and trade, fostering economic growth while promoting health benefits worldwide.
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The Source’s Authority and Ownership of the Article is Claimed By THE STUDY IAS BY MANIKANT SINGH
