In a very unusual move to uplift Bihar's agricultural sector and position it as a global player, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today announced the establishment of a Makhana Board as part of the Union Budget 2025-26. The initiative, aimed at enhancing the production, processing, and marketing of Makhana, could revolutionise the state's flagship crop and empower its farmers. This announcement has come ahead of the crucial Assembly elections in Bihar.

But why is Makhana important?

Makhana, also known as foxnuts or lotus seeds, has long been a staple crop in Bihar, particularly thriving in the Mithilanchal region. With a rich history and cultural significance, Makhana has already earned recognition under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme and, more recently, a Geographical Indication (GI) tag as 'Mithila Makhana'. The creation of the Makhana Board is poised to provide much-needed technical support, improve market linkages, and ensure better returns for farmers, positioning the crop as a key player in Bihar’s agricultural future.

The timing of this announcement is especially pertinent as Indian consumers increasingly focus on healthier food options. With its nutritional profile, Makhana has gained global recognition as a 'superfood', and the government aims to tap into this growing demand. The initiative comes at a time when individuals are seeking alternatives to traditional snacks, driven by rising health concerns and a national push for healthier living.

Entrepreneurs like Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath have also been vocal about Makhana's untapped potential. Kamath recently took to X, sharing his excitement about the industry’s prospects, including his vision of creating a global Indian brand for Makhana. “Maybe room here to build a really large brand, an Indian brand that sells to the world. Personally, I’m hooked on Makhana,” he wrote, adding fuel to the fire of an already rapidly growing sector.

The health-conscious movement in India, championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, further supports Makhana’s growing appeal. In his address at the 38th National Games in Dehradun, Modi called on citizens to reduce oil consumption and focus on a balanced diet. With Makhana being low in fats and high in fiber, it fits perfectly into the Prime Minister’s vision for a healthier, fitter India. Its nutritional benefits—rich in protein, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus—make it an ideal snack for those looking to cut down on unhealthy fats and oils.

The new Makhana Board is expected to address the sector's pressing issues, including the growing demand-supply gap, which has led to skyrocketing prices. The board will play a crucial role in managing this imbalance by supporting small and medium-scale farmers, improving their access to global markets, and facilitating innovation in the production and marketing of Makhana products. This will help Bihar not only regain its economic strength but also build a sustainable and competitive edge in the global market.

The rise of Makhana as a ‘superfood’ is not just an economic story for Bihar; it’s a testament to the resilience of the state’s agricultural community. Despite the challenges of floods and natural disasters that have historically plagued the region, Makhana has proven to be a boon, allowing farmers to recover and contribute to the local economy’s resurgence.

Now with this announcement, can Makhana leapfrog into global prominence? Time will tell.