Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is set to participate in the Makhana Festival in Patna, Bihar, on Saturday, underscoring the state’s pivotal role in India’s makhana industry.
In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Chouhan said, “Dear sisters and brothers of Bihar, nephews and nieces. Today, I am coming to the Makhana Festival in Patna. Makhana is Bihar’s pride.”
He also highlighted the Centre’s support for the industry, stating, “The Honorable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji has formed the Makhana Board. This board will work at full capacity to boost makhana production, processing, packaging, marketing, and exports.”
Chouhan expressed optimism about the economic impact of the initiative, adding, “Makhana will also bring investment to Bihar, increase employment, and create a sensation in the world.”
As part of the Union Budget 2025–26, the central government announced the formation of a dedicated Makhana Board in Bihar—one of India’s leading producers of this nutrient-rich food. The board aims to enhance production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana across the country.
At the heart of this movement is the National Research Centre for Makhana (NRCM) in Darbhanga, which plays a key role in makhana research and development. Equipped with a team of skilled scientists, the centre has achieved breakthroughs such as high-yielding makhana varieties, thornless water chestnuts, water-efficient farming models, and integrated makhana-cum-fish farming systems.
Additionally, NRCM has developed and licensed a range of machinery for commercial use in makhana processing. These include the Makhana seed washer, grader, roasting and popping machines, and equipment for producing various value-added products.
Over time, the centre has distributed 15,824.1 kilograms of high-yield makhana seeds to farmers, agricultural institutions, and development agencies across states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. Key beneficiaries include NABARD, state fisheries departments, and the Bihar Horticulture Development Society.
The NRCM has also trained thousands of farmers and entrepreneurs, helping to boost rural economies and livelihoods. As a result, makhana cultivation has expanded significantly—from about 13,000 hectares to 35,000 hectares—across several states, contributing to the rapid growth of this emerging agri-sector.
