"From Bihar to Global Plates: The Rise of Makhana!"

Isha V Joshi
Feb 4
3 min read

Updated: Apr 14

From the streets of Madhubani in Bihar to now worldwide, the superfood is ruling the domestic as well as international regions. Makhana (known as "Foxnuts") is one of the widely consumed snacks in India and worldwide. On 1st February, 2025, the makhana got a special mention as it was highlighted in the Union Budget. But, is there any potential in the makhana market of India? We will find this out in our today's blog.

Makhana is considered to be a superfood and today is famous for numerous reasons. The origin of makhana was 200 years ago; in ancient days, it was considered a royal delicacy and was also used in religious rituals. Makhana's major cultivation takes place in the Madhubani region in Bihar. It nearly contributes 40% of the total production in the state of Bihar. Makhana has various names such as Phool Makhana; Western countries call it "Foxnuts" and "Lotus seeds", "Euryale Ferox". Bihar contributes around 90% of India's total makhana production, making it the ultimate leader.

Makhana is called a superfood for some reason, and if you haven't added this, then now is the time to get it add to your diet. It has numerous benefits such as: high in fiber, good for heart health, gluten-free.

The production of makhana started in the Mithilanchal region of Bihar and is now distributed to the rest of the world. Mithila makhana is also called the black diamond, which received a Geographical Indication Tag, eventually leading to an increase in production and supply. It was a proud moment when makhana was officially exclusively produced in the Mithilanchal region of Bihar.

Bihar: The Top Cultivator of Makhana

The Mithila region, particularly the districts of Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnia, and many more, are the hub of makhana marketing. The location of Bihar, with its ideal climate and wetlands, makes it the perfect place for makhana cultivation.

As stated in the research, "Once considered a challenge for farming, Bihar’s flood-prone areas have become an asset, with makhana emerging as a high-yield alternative to traditional crops. The introduction of ‘Sabour Makhana-1,’ a new variety, has significantly boosted yields and increased the edible seed ratio from 40 percent to 60 percent, enabling farmers to earn nearly three times more than they would from rice cultivation."

Is the leader able to establish their identity worldwide?

There are certain challenges that Bihar faces to date, leading to lower cultivation. Problems such as:

Lack of modern processing infrastructure;
Poor market linkages;
Low awareness;
Climate changes;
Lack of research and many more...

Due to these various hindrances, Bihar's dominance in the sector is being stopped.

Progressive Steps taken recently:

Source: The Economic Times

The Union Budget of 2025 highlighted the importance of makhana and created a special board called the "Makhana Board in Bihar" aimed to address the challenges and improve the production, processing, and marketing.
Promotion under NHM (National Horticulture Mission) aims to develop the ponds, irrigation systems, and improve processing techniques, and also equip farmers with modern cultivation methods.
India currently holds the 7th position in global food exports, offering a great opportunity and potential to grow and to reach number 5 in next five years. The government aims to increase the food exports by 40% in the next five years.
The government is shifting its focus on key Indian products such as Turmeric, Amla, Moringa, Jackfruit, Millets, and Makhana as they could become major players in the global superfood market.

With the Government's constant efforts, Makhana can surely become one of the India's top export commodities. Moreover, addressing the various challenges, boosting farmers' income, and using modern techniques can surely lead to the rise of Makhana as an ultimate superfood, making an invaluable position in "Made in India superfood."

“I would love to hear your thoughts as well. Drop your insights below!”

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