Farmers in Bihar on Wednesday congratulated PM Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday and prayed for his long and healthy life.
They expressed delight over the government’s decision to set up the National Makhana Board, calling it a historic step for the state’s economy.
Launch of the National Makhana Board
On Monday, PM Modi formally launched the National Makhana Board in Purnea, Bihar, fulfilling a proposal announced in the Union Budget 2025.
The government has sanctioned nearly ₹475 crore for the sector to boost production, processing, and exports of Makhana, also known as fox nut.
Highlighting its health and commercial value, PM Modi said, “I eat Makhana at least 300 out of 365 days a year. It is a superfood that we must now take to global markets.”
Makhana, primarily cultivated in the Seemanchal and Mithilanchal regions, is sown in March-April and harvested in August-September.
Farmers grow the crop in ponds and lakes, with labourers wading through water to collect pods when they mature. The seeds are then roasted, cracked, and graded before being packaged for sale.
This labour-intensive process forms the backbone of Bihar’s makhana economy.
Farmers Express Optimism
Farmers and entrepreneurs hailed the board as a turning point.
- Chandu Rishi, a makhana entrepreneur, said: “With the new Makhana Board, we will benefit the most. The quality of the product will increase, and so will our income. We work very hard, and hence the new board will bring us profits.”
- Niresh Sharma, a labourer, expressed gratitude: “My daily wage will increase after the new board is set up. We are satisfied and thank PM Modi for it. Since it is the Prime Minister’s birthday, we pray for his long life.”
- Manish Kumar, another entrepreneur, added: “After the formation of the board, a fixed MSP will be established. This will not only benefit farmers and entrepreneurs but will also open new opportunities for the industry. The Prime Minister himself has become the brand ambassador for Makhana. Now, Makhana will become famous worldwide.”
Officials said the Makhana Board will focus on improving production standards, post-harvest management, and value addition. The body will also strengthen marketing and export linkages while helping farmer-producer organisations access central schemes.
Farmers and entrepreneurs believe the initiative will put Makhana on the global map, ensuring better prices, stronger income security, and sustainable growth for Bihar’s traditional crop.
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