MAKHANA BOARD – BUDGET 2025

MAKHANA BOARD – BUDGET 2025

NEWS: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the Union Budget on February 1, 2025, announced the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar.

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

Announcement in Union Budget 2025

  • This decision highlights the government's focus on promoting the production and marketing of Makhana, recognizing its economic and agricultural significance.
  • The primary objective of setting up this board is to improve the production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana. This initiative aims to create a structured and organized industry around makhana, ensuring better profits for farmers and stakeholders.
  • The Makhana Board will provide training and support to farmers engaged in makhana cultivation. It will introduce modern farming techniques, educate farmers on best practices, and help them transition to high-yielding varieties.
  • Additionally, the board will work to ensure that makhana farmers receive the benefits of relevant government schemes, such as subsidies, financial assistance, and agricultural support programs. This move is expected to enhance productivity, improve quality, and increase the income of farmers involved in Makhana cultivation.

 

Makhana: An Overview

  • Makhana is a type of edible seed obtained from the plant Euryale ferox, which belongs to the water lily family (Nymphaeaceae). The plant grows in water and is an important crop in many parts of Asia.
  • It is commonly known as Fox Nut in English and has been widely consumed for centuries due to its nutritional and medicinal properties.
  • The Makhana plant thrives in freshwater ponds, lakes, and wetlands, particularly in regions of South Asia and East Asia, where stagnant or slow-moving water bodies provide a suitable environment for its growth.
  • Notable Features of the Plant:

·         The plant produces beautiful violet and white flowers that float on the water’s surface.

·         It has large, round, and spiky leaves that can grow over one meter in diameter. These leaves help protect the seeds, which form underwater.

 

Edible Part and Nutritional Value

  • The edible part of the makhana plant is its seed, which is small, round, and enclosed in a hard outer shell that ranges in color from black to brown.
  • Because of its dark-colored shell and high market value, makhana is often referred to as the "Black Diamond". This nickname highlights its economic importance, particularly in regions like Bihar, where it serves as a major cash crop.
  • After processing, the raw seeds undergo a process where they are roasted and popped to produce the final edible product. This popped makhana is commonly known as ‘lava’ and is widely consumed as a healthy snack.
  • Nutritional Benefits of Makhana:

·         Low in fat: Unlike many other snacks, makhana has very little fat content, making it a healthier option.

·         High in carbohydrates: It provides a quick source of energy.

·         Rich in protein: Essential for body growth and muscle repair.

·         Contains important minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, which contribute to overall well-being.

  • Due to its medicinal and health benefits, makhana is used in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine and is often included in diet plans for diabetes and weight management.

 

Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

  • In 2022, the famous Mithila Makhana received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which is an official recognition of its unique regional characteristics and quality.
  • A GI tag is a special designation given to products that originate from a specific geographical area and have qualities, reputation, or characteristics unique to that region.
  • Validity of GI Tag: The GI tag is valid for 10 years, after which it must be renewed to continue enjoying the benefits of protection under intellectual property laws.
  • Why GI Tag is Important?

·         It helps in protecting the product from imitation and ensures that only makhana grown in the Mithila region can be marketed as Mithila Makhana.

·         It boosts the export potential of the product by providing it with a globally recognized identity.

·         It increases farmer income by creating brand value and market exclusivity.

 

Makhana Production in India

  • India is the largest producer of makhana, contributing significantly to the global supply.
  • Bihar accounts for 90% of India’s total makhana production, making it the dominant producer of this crop.
  • The major makhana-producing districts are located in the Mithilanchal region of Northern and Eastern Bihar. These districts include:

·         Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnea, Katihar, Saharsa, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, and Sitamarhi.

  • Among these, the first four districts (Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnea, and Katihar) contribute nearly 80% of Bihar’s total makhana output.
  • According to a 2020 study by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), approximately 15,000 hectares of land in Bihar are under makhana cultivation, producing nearly 10,000 tonnes of popped makhana annually.

 

Makhana Cultivation in Other States and Countries

  • Although Bihar dominates production, makhana is also cultivated in smaller quantities in Assam, Manipur, West Bengal, Tripura, and Odisha.
  • Makhana is also grown in neighboring countries such as:

·         Nepal

·         Bangladesh

·         China

·         Japan

·         Korea

 

Climatic Conditions for Makhana Cultivation

  • Makhana is an aquatic crop, meaning it requires standing water for cultivation.
  • It grows best in tropical and subtropical climates, where temperature and rainfall conditions are favorable.
  • Water Requirements:

·         It is typically cultivated in stagnant water bodies, including ponds, lakes, ditches, and wetlands, where the water depth is between 4-6 feet.

  • Climate Requirements:

·         Optimal Temperature Range: 20-35°C.

·         Relative Humidity: 50-90%, which helps maintain the moisture needed for growth.

·         Annual Rainfall Requirement: 100-250 cm.

 

Challenges in Makhana Farming

  • Low adoption of high-yield varieties:

·         Farmers have been slow to embrace scientifically developed high-yield varieties, such as Swarna Vaidehi and Sabour Makhana-1, which could significantly improve productivity.

  • Traditional Processing Methods:

·         Many farmers still use outdated methods, leading to low efficiency and reduced market value.

  • Limited Export Infrastructure:

·         Lack of modern storage, packaging, and processing facilities has restricted India’s makhana exports.

 

Role of Makhana Board

  • The Government has allocated ₹100 crore to set up the Makhana Board.
  • Main Functions of the Board:

·         Provide training and modern techniques to farmers.

·         Promote export-oriented production to make Indian makhana globally competitive.

·         Attract investments in food processing and storage infrastructure.

 

 Related Government Initiatives

One District One Product (ODOP) Scheme

  • Encourages each district to develop one signature product, such as Mithila Makhana in Bihar.
  • Aims to boost rural entrepreneurship and local industries.

 

One Station One Product (OSOP) Scheme

  • Allows local artisans, weavers, and farmers to sell their products at railway stations.
  • Focuses on promoting regional handicrafts and agricultural products like Makhana.

 

Conclusion

  • The Makhana Board is a strategic move to boost India’s makhana industry.
  • Government initiatives like GI Tag, ODOP, and OSOP will strengthen Makhana's brand value.
  • If properly implemented, this plan will enhance farmer income, promote exports, and create a sustainable ecosystem for makhana cultivation.

 

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/upsc-current-affairs/upsc-essentials/knowledge-nugget-why-is-makhana-cultivation-and-its-geographical-aspects-important-for-the-upsc-prelims-exam-union-budget-2025-9814410/