Context:
Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Bihar Deputy CM link up with Makhana farmers in Darbhanga just a couple of days prior to PM Modi’s Bihar visit. At PM Modi’s behest, 19th PM Kisan Nidhi installment brought out and development projects inaugurated.
Key Highlights:
- Establishment of Makhana Board under Union Budget FY26 aims to have a major impact on production, processing, and exports.
Importance of Makhana in Politics and Economics
What is Makhana Important For
- Bihar is home to 90% of Makhana produced by India, which is now declared a superfood on earth.
- The area under cultivation has increased from 13,000 hectares in FY13 to 35,224 hectares in FY22 showing an increase of 171% over a period of 9 years.
- Production is concentrated in 10 key districts of Mithilanchal & Seemanchal, creating jobs.
Government Initiatives
- Makhana Board (Union Budget FY26): Branding, marketing, and farmer support were centered.
- One District, One Product Scheme: Noted priority crop given highest focus by Bihar is Makhana.
- Support of APEDA & NHM: Boosting exports and offering subsidy support to achieve better production.
- For NABARD: This would include financial support for storage and processing infrastructure.
