Context:
Recently, the National Makhana Board (NMB) held its first official meeting, marking an important institutional step towards strengthening India’s makhana (fox nut) sector. Alongside this, the Government of India rolled out a ₹476-crore Central Sector Scheme aimed at the holistic development of the makhana value chain from cultivation and processing to marketing and exports.
Key Features of the Makhana Development Scheme:
|
Component |
Key Provisions |
|
Production & Productivity Enhancement |
Support for improved seeds and planting material; mechanisation of harvesting and processing; promotion of scientific farming practices; reduction of labour-intensive and hazardous traditional methods. |
|
Post-Harvest Management & Value Addition |
Establishment of processing units; development of storage and grading facilities; promotion of value-added products such as roasted makhana, makhana flour, snacks, and nutraceuticals. |
|
Research & Development |
Support for crop improvement and disease resistance; development of climate-resilient varieties; collaboration with agricultural universities and research institutions. |
|
Marketing, Branding & Exports |
Development of quality standards and certification mechanisms; branding and GI-based promotion; support for access to domestic and international markets. |
|
Capacity Building & Farmer Support |
Training programmes for farmers, SHGs, and FPOs; skill development in modern processing and packaging techniques; improved access to credit and government schemes. |
About Makhana (Fox Nut):
• Botanical name: Euryale ferox
• An aquatic crop grown mainly in ponds, wetlands, and low-lying water bodies
• India is the world’s largest producer, accounting for over 80% of global production
• Bihar dominates production, particularly in the Mithila and Seemanchal regions
Nutritional profile:
• High in protein and dietary fibre
• Low in fat and cholesterol
• Rich in antioxidants and essential micronutrients
National Makhana Board (NMB):
The National Makhana Board is a government body launched in September 2025 to promote and develop India’s makhana sector. It focuses on research, technology adoption, farmer support, value addition, branding, and export promotion.
Objectives:
• Provide institutional support to makhana farmers and processor.
• Promote research, quality improvement, and mechanisation.
• Enhance value addition, branding, and exports.
• Improve farmers’ income and livelihood security.
Economic and Social Significance:
· Enhances farmers’ income, particularly in eastern India.
· Generates rural employment, especially for women and marginal farmers.
· Supports the growth of food processing industries and MSMEs.
· Aligns with national priorities such as:
o Doubling farmers’ income
o Atmanirbhar Bharat
o Vocal for Local and export promotion
Conclusion:
The first meeting of the National Makhana Board and the launch of the ₹476-crore Central Sector Scheme represent a focused policy intervention to unlock the untapped potential of India’s makhana sector. By strengthening the entire value chain from farm to market, the initiative can transform makhana into a high-value agricultural commodity, boost rural livelihoods, and enhance India’s footprint in global health-food markets.
