NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made headlines Monday during his visit to Bhagalpur, Bihar, where he was honored with a garland made of Makhana, also known as fox nuts. This event coincided with the release of the 19th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, aimed at financially supporting farmers across the nation.
During his address, PM Modi highlighted his appreciation for Makhana, declaring, "I eat Makhana at least 300 out of 365 days a year. It is a superfood we must now take to global markets." His passionate comments positioned Makhana as not only a staple food item but as part of the growing trend toward health consciousness among Indians, with him noting its importance as part of breakfast across various urban households.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come on the heels of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement during the recent budget session, where she proposed establishing a Makhana Board aimed at enhancing production, processing, value addition, and marketing of this nutritious crop. Sitharaman stated, “A Makhana Board will be established to improve production and processing of fox nut.” This initiative is seen as pivotal for Bihar, which is the leading producer of Makhana, contributing approximately 80% of the nation's supply.
Makhana is not only praised for its taste but also its nutritional benefits, being rich in fiber and protein. Modi underscored, “Makhana today has become part of breakfast for people across the country,” highlighting its growing popularity amid changing dietary habits. He continued to advocate for Makhana, pushing for initiatives to maximize its presence both locally and globally, stating the need for it to reach international markets.
While the government's focus shifts toward Makhana and agricultural success, independent MP Rajesh Ranjan, popularly known as Pappu Yadav, expressed his discontent with the state's handling of agricultural issues, particularly accusing the administration of neglecting the Seemanchal-Kosi region. To voice his grievances, Yadav called for a 'bandh' (strike) demanding local attention and intervention for the establishment of the Makhana Board within his Purnea constituency.
Prior to PM Modi’s visit, Yadav spoke passionately about creating opportunities for Makhana farmers and threatened to obstruct train traffic to draw attention to their plight. His actions reflect the underlying tension within Bihar’s agricultural sector, amid proposals for improvement and support for farmers through government initiatives.
PM Modi's address at the farmers' rally went beyond Makhana, as he highlighted the broader benefits of the PM Kisan scheme, which provides direct financial support to farmers. He mentioned, “Through the direct benefit transfer, over 22 thousand crore rupees have been sent to farmers' accounts today, benefiting more than 9 crore families across the nation.” The overarching theme was the government’s commitment to elevizing the agricultural sector, boost exports, and provide farmers with the resources at their disposal.
The coalescence of such declarations - the establishment of the Makhana Board, increased emphasis on the superfood Makhana, and the direct transfer of funds to farmers - paints a picture of significant political maneuvering as Bihar prepares for assembly elections later this year. Modi’s reiteration of his dietary preference may resonate with voters tuning in to agriculture-related issues, reinforcing his administration’s resolve to change the narrative around farming.
Experts assert the considerable promise held by Makhana, noting its benefits for weight management and potential impacts on heart health. Widely regarded as a superfood, Makhana can play an instrumental role for health-conscious consumers, hence the increasing calls to capitalize on both domestic and global demand.
The agricultural narrative surrounding Makhana resonates loudly within Bihar, reflecting both cultural identity and economic potential. It signifies not only food production but also the significance of empowering local farmers, maximizing brand recognition, and the potential for innovation within the food processing sector set against the backdrop of government support.
PM Modi concluded his speech on a high note, rallying support for the agricultural community as well as the pending establishment of the Makhana Board, which he asserted would empower farmers, stating, “Makhana is no longer just for Bihar. It’s time for Makhana to conquer the world.” This proclamation signals the government’s strategic aim to promote regional products on global platforms and may even resonate beyond state lines, heralding new possibilities for advancement in the agricultural sector.