Report

In her Budget 2025 address, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the formation of a new Makhana Board in Bihar. The board will enhance Makhana production, marketing, and value addition in the state. It will also guide and assist farmers, ensuring they benefit from government programs. The budget includes several measures to boost the financial sector, improve the taxation system, strengthen the mining industry, enhance the energy sector, foster urban development, and implement regulatory changes.

About the Makhana Board

Bihar leads the production of Makhana (fox nut), contributing nearly 90% of the total output. Farmers grow the crop in nine northern and eastern regions of Bihar, including Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnea, Katihar, Saharsa, Araria, Kishanganj, Supaul, and Sitamarhi. Despite their dominant position in production, farmers face challenges such as low profits, market volatility, inadequate farming methods, and a lack of food processing and export facilities.

Because Bihar lacks processing units, farmers must sell unprocessed Makhana at reduced prices to other states. The absence of cargo handling facilities also limits large-scale exports. The Makhana Board will tackle these issues by offering subsidies, supporting initiatives, improving production methods, adding value, and boosting export capabilities.

How the Makhana Board Will Transform the Sector

With an allocated budget of Rs 100 crores, the Makhana Board will work to establish food processing units, significantly increasing Makhana processing within Bihar. The program will enhance infrastructure, improving storage, marketing, and access to international trade. In addition, the board will assist farmers through subsidies, training programs, and support initiatives. These efforts aim to improve production efficiency, promote value addition, and increase overall market competitiveness. This initiative has the potential to rejuvenate Bihar’s Makhana sector, create new employment opportunities, improve farmers’ quality of life, and position Bihar as a key player in the global Makhana market.

Source: Food Tech News