In a landmark move to elevate India’s makhana sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the National Makhana Board in Purnea, Bihar on September 15, 2025. The initiative, first announced in the Union Budget 2025, is backed by a ₹475 crore development package aimed at scaling up production, improving processing standards, and expanding global exports of makhana—also known as fox nut or the Black Diamond of Bihar.
The launch marks a significant step in formalising the makhana value chain, empowering farmers, and positioning Mithila Makhana as a premium superfood on the global stage.
Key Highlights of the Announcement
The National Makhana Board will focus on production enhancement, post-harvest management, technology adoption, and export promotion.
The ₹475 crore package includes funding for modern processing units, packaging facilities, and farmer-producer organisations.
PM Modi emphasized makhana’s health benefits and export potential, calling it a superfood worthy of global recognition.
A seven-ton consignment of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana was recently shipped to New Zealand, Canada, and the US.
Why Makhana Matters
Nutritional Powerhouse
Makhana is low in calories and fat, rich in plant-based protein, dietary fibre, and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium.
It contains antioxidants and is gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it popular among health-conscious consumers.
Its versatility allows it to be consumed roasted, in curries, or as part of traditional sweets.
Cultural and Economic Significance
The Mithila variety of makhana holds deep culinary and ritual importance in Bihar.
Bihar accounts for nearly 90 percent of India’s makhana output, with cultivation concentrated in districts like Madhubani, Darbhanga, Saharsa, and Purnea.
The crop is grown in stagnant ponds and wetlands, harvested manually, and processed through labor-intensive methods.
What the National Makhana Board Will Do
Improve grading, packaging, and branding to enhance market value.
Support farmer cooperatives and producer organisations to access central schemes.
Introduce modern technologies for drying, roasting, and popping to reduce manual labour.
Develop export linkages and marketing strategies to promote Mithila Makhana globally.
Establish price support mechanisms and quality standards for domestic and international markets.
Infrastructure and Export Push
The Board’s formation coincides with broader development efforts in Bihar, including the inauguration of Purnea Airport’s new terminal and other projects worth ₹40,000 crore.
The airport upgrade is expected to improve logistics and connectivity for makhana exports.
Recent shipments of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana to Western markets signal growing international demand.
Challenges and Opportunities
The makhana sector remains fragmented, with limited access to modern infrastructure and market intelligence.
The success of the ₹475 crore plan hinges on timely fund allocation, adoption of improved post-harvest techniques, and active participation from local producer groups.
Formalising the value chain could significantly boost farmer incomes and create rural employment.
Conclusion
The launch of the National Makhana Board is more than a policy announcement—it’s a strategic investment in Bihar’s agricultural heritage and India’s superfood future. With strong government backing, global market interest, and local expertise, makhana is poised to become a symbol of sustainable growth and nutritional excellence. As PM Modi aptly put it, the time has come to take this Black Diamond from Bihar to the world.
Sources: MSN News, NDTV Food, News18 India, Devdiscourse
