Government Approves ₹476 Crore Scheme for Makhana Development

The central government has approved a major scheme to promote the development of Makhana with a total outlay of ₹476.03 crore for the period 2025-26 to 2030-31. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare highlighted that the scheme aims to strengthen the entire makhana value chain through research and innovation, quality seed production, farmer capacity building, improved harvesting and post-harvest practices, value addition, branding, and marketing and export promotion and quality control.

Capacity Building and Training Initiatives

To strengthen makhana cultivation across traditional and nontraditional areas, State Agriculture University (SAU), Central Agriculture University (CAU), Bihar, and NRC Makhana Dharbhanga will conduct “train-the-trainer” programs. These programs will focus on the latest technological innovations across the makhana value chain, enabling farmers to adopt modern practices effectively.

Focus on R&D, Infrastructure, and Market Expansion

The Board stressed the need for continuous research and development in cultivation and processing technologies. Key priorities include:

• Development of infrastructure for grading, drying, popping, and packaging
• Promotion of modern cultivation practices
• Value addition and branding
• Strengthening market linkages and export readiness

Launch of National Makhana Board

The Union Government established the National Makhana Board, fulfilling the announcement made in the Union Budget 2025-26. The Board was officially launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bihar on September 15, 2025, marking a significant step toward modernising and strengthening India’s makhana sector.

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