Mithila Makhana Board

The Indian government has taken a monumental step to promote regional agricultural products and empower farmers by announcing the establishment of the Mithila Makhana Board in Bihar. This initiative, revealed in the Union Budget 2025-26, highlights the importance of Mithila Makhana, a unique aquatic crop with cultural, nutritional, and economic significance. Here’s an in-depth look at what this means for the farmers, the economy, and the global market.

Mithila Makhana, also known as fox nut or lotus seed, is an aquatic crop cultivated primarily in the Mithila region of Bihar and neighboring areas. It is celebrated for its numerous benefits:

• Nutritional Value: High in protein, low in fat, and rich in antioxidants, Makhana is a superfood widely used in healthy diets.
• Cultural Importance: It plays a vital role in festivals and rituals, especially during occasions like Kojagara.
• Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: In 2022, Mithila Makhana received the GI tag, officially linking it to its region of origin and ensuring its authenticity in the market.

This recognition not only safeguards Mithila Makhana’s unique identity but also boosts its marketability, both domestically and internationally.

The Indian government recognized the need to support the farmers and stakeholders involved in Makhana production. Announcing the board in the Union Budget 2025-26, the Finance Minister allocated ₹100 crore for its establishment. The board’s objectives include:

1. Empowering Farmers: Providing training in advanced cultivation techniques.
2. Enhancing Quality: Ensuring the production of high-quality Makhana by introducing scientific methods.
3. Infrastructure Development: Establishing modern storage facilities and processing units.
4. Market Expansion: Opening doors to international markets to position Mithila Makhana as a premium product.
5. Value-Added Products: Encouraging the production of snacks, powders, and other derivatives of Makhana.

The initiative is expected to generate substantial benefits for the region and the country:

1. Increased Farmer Incomes

The board will help farmers get better prices by reducing middlemen, ensuring direct access to national and international markets.

2. Enhanced Production

By training farmers and introducing technological advancements, the board aims to increase both the yield and quality of Mithila Makhana.

3. Boosting Exports

India’s Makhana exports have great potential. With improved branding and quality assurance, Mithila Makhana can gain a significant share in the global market.

4. Job Creation

The establishment of processing units and research centers will create employment opportunities in rural and urban areas.

This initiative aligns with the government’s broader focus on promoting the agricultural sector and regional specialties. The Mithila Makhana Board is part of a series of measures announced in the Union Budget 2025-26 to support local economies and enhance India’s export potential.

While the establishment of the board is a significant step, its success will depend on addressing certain challenges:

1. Awareness and Training: Ensuring farmers are educated about the benefits of GI tagging and the new board’s resources.
2. Efficient Infrastructure: Timely development of storage, transport, and processing facilities.
3. Global Branding: Building a strong brand identity for Mithila Makhana in international markets.

By addressing these challenges, the board can ensure that the benefits reach every stakeholder in the Mithila Makhana ecosystem.

The Mithila Makhana Board is more than just a policy decision—it is a recognition of the cultural and economic significance of Mithila Makhana. With its establishment, the government has laid the foundation for a brighter future for farmers and the regional economy of Bihar. This initiative not only boosts local livelihoods but also introduces the world to the unique and nutritious superfood that is Mithila Makhana.

As the board takes shape, it is expected to transform the Makhana industry, paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity.