Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently emphasized the importance of Bihar’s traditional crop, Makhana, calling it a "superfood" worthy of global promotion during a rally held in Bhagalpur. Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the foxnut, stating he consumes it personally for at least 300 days out of each year, showcasing its rising popularity as part of daily nutrition.
During the event, attended by prominent political figures including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Union Ministers, PM Modi highlighted the government's commitment to boost both the production and marketing of Makhana. According to the Prime Minister, "Now, makhana has become a staple part of breakfast in cities across the country. It is a superfood... That's why, in this year's budget, the government has announced the formation of a Makhana Board for the benefit of makhana farmers."
This new initiative aims to focus on value addition, marketing strategies, and improving the livelihoods of farmers who depend on Makhana as their primary crop. These plans are particularly timely as the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections approach, scheduled for late this year.
Interestingly, the push for Makhana aligns with the central government’s efforts to amplify agricultural exports from India. Modi remarked, "Agricultural exports have increased manifold, ensuring farmers receive fair prices for their produce. Now, it’s time for Bihar’s makhana to reach global markets," underlining the potential for Makhana to gain international recognition.
Makhana has established itself as not merely a nutritious snack but also as one of Bihar's iconic agricultural products. The Makhana Board, as announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, will not only support farmers with training but also aid them in utilizing relevant government schemes. The Minister said, "The Makhana Board will provide hand holding and training support to makhana farmers," highlighting the government's dedication to enhancing the sector.
Given its rich nutritional profile—packed with protein, fiber, and various minerals—Makhana has captured the interest of health-conscious consumers, both domestically and abroad. Over recent years, its image as a healthy snack has led to soaring demand, which has significant market implications for Bihar, responsible for approximately 80% of the country’s Makhana production.
Despite its many benefits, Makhana faces challenges such as its high cost, attributed to labor-intensive harvesting practices and limited production areas. While it is marketed as a superfood, the intricacies of sourcing Makhana affect its price tag. For many consumers, the question arises: Why is this superfood so expensive? The answer lies not only in its nutritional value but also the arduous process involved in harvesting and processing this delicate crop.
Current market trends reveal dramatic increases in Makhana prices, driven by both local and international demand. Reports indicate substantial price surges over the past decade, with some estimates showing prices rising by around 700%. The recent announcement of the establishment of the Makhana Board has already influenced pricing strategies, and stakeholders are optimistic about future profitability.
Indeed, with its Geographical Indication (GI) tag, conferred in 2022 to the Mithila variety from Bihar, prospects for Makhana to capture more of the global market seem promising. The Prime Minister’s statements at the rally not only showcased the nutritional benefits of Makhana but also spoke volumes about its potential as a key export product.
PM Modi's commitment to promoting Makhana is also pivotal for local farmers, many of whom rely heavily on this crop for their livelihoods. Modi celebrated the establishment of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) across the country during his address, which marks a significant step forward for agricultural practices and farmer support systems. The 10,000th FPO, which focuses on crops including maize, bananas, and paddy, was registered recently in Khagaria district, Bihar.
The interplay of governmental support, public interest, and market opportunities presents Makhana not just as indigenous food, but as emblematic of Bihar's agricultural potential. While the initiative focuses on increasing production, it also aims to amplify the aspirations of farmers who grow this unique crop. This could lead to enhanced economic prospects for Bharat's farmers who are about to engage with new global markets.
With various stakeholders involved—the government ensuring support through policies, farmers on the ground cultivating this beloved crop, and consumers eager for health benefits—it is clear the superfood known as Makhana is poised for a significant moment on both national and international stages. The coming months are set to be transformative, with the Makhana Board leading the charge for sustainable and prosperous agricultural practices.