Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the creation of a Makhana Board in Bihar to boost the production, processing, value addition, and marketing of Makhana (foxnut) during the Budget Session 2025.
The board aims to provide production, processing, value addition, training, technical support, access to government schemes for farmers, and expanding market opportunities.
This initiative is expected to benefit Makhana-producing districts such as Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sitamarhi, Saharsa, Katihar, Purnia, Supaul, Kishanganj, and Araria, helping Bihar maintain its leadership in the global Makhana market.
These regions are known for their naturally conducive conditions for cultivating high-quality Mithila Makhana. The move promises innovation, sustainability, and economic prosperity for the state’s agricultural sector.
This initiative aims to bolster the Makhana industry, which plays a crucial role in the state’s agricultural and economic landscape. The Finance Minister highlighted the board’s mission, stating,
The Board will provide hand-holding and training support to Makhana farmers and will also work to ensure they receive the benefits of all relevant Government schemes.
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Corporate Affairs of India
Objectives of the Makhana Board
The board will act as a catalyst for the growth of the Makhana sector by focusing on the following key areas:
- Improved Production Techniques: Training farmers on advanced cultivation practices to boost Makhana yield and maintain quality.
- Value Addition and Processing: Introducing modern processing methods to enhance product value and diversify Makhana-based products.
- Market Expansion: Strengthening market linkages to promote Makhana at national and international levels.
- Training and Capacity Building: Organizing workshops and training sessions to educate farmers and entrepreneurs on market trends and innovative practices.
- Government Scheme Access: Ensuring that farmers can benefit from various government schemes related to agriculture and financial support.
Empowering Makhana Farmers
During the announcement, the Finance Minister emphasized the board’s role in providing crucial support to farmers.
The Makhana Board will provide hand-holding and training support to farmers and ensure they receive the benefits of all relevant government schemes.
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Corporate Affairs of India
Global Recognition
The establishment of the Makhana Board is expected to strengthen the state’s position as the leading hub for premium Makhana production. Focusing on fostering innovation and empowering farmers through training and market linkages, the board will play a pivotal role in transforming the Makhana industry in Bihar.
This initiative reaffirms the government’s commitment to supporting traditional agricultural practices while embracing modern advancements to meet growing domestic and international demand for Mithila Makhana, a GI-tagged product known for its superior quality.