Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of the new Makhana Board in Bihar. During her budget 2025 speech, she stated that this board will improve the production, marketing, and value addition of Makhana in the state. It will also provide hand-holding and support to the farmers and ensure they receive benefits from the Government schemes.
The minister’s budget will include steps to improve the financial sector, taxation, mining, power sector, urban development, and regulatory reforms.
About the Makhana Board
Bihar is the leading producer of Makhana (fox nut) accounting for about 90% of the total production. It is cultivated in nine districts of northern and eastern Bihar (Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnea, Katihar, Saharsa, Araria, Kishanganj, Supaul, Sitamarhi). However, despite the dominance, the farmers lack profit, face market fluctuations, poor farming techniques, lack of food processing infrastructure and export facilities.
Moreover, due to insufficient processing units in Bihar, farmers are compelled to sell raw makhana at lower prices in other states. Lack of cargo handling facilities in the state is making large-scale exports difficult. This board will help in providing support to the farmers by introducing subsidies and support programs, enhance production, value addition, efficiency and export facilities.
How will the Makhana Board bring a change?
With a budget of Rs 100 crores this initiative will help develop food processing units ensuring more makhana is processed in the state. By improving storage, marketing and international trade access the infrastructure will be supported. Moreover, support to the farmers via subsidies, training programs and schemes will be provided.
This initiative has the potential to revitalize Bihar’s makhana industry, creating more jobs, improving farmer livelihoods, and positioning the state as a key player in the global makhana market.
Date- 15th Feb 2025 Time- 10 AM to 5 PM Fee – Rs 1180
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