In a significant move to strengthen India’s makhana industry, the Union government has approved a comprehensive development program with a budget of Rs 476.03 crore, set to run from 2025-26 to 2030-31. This initiative aims to modernize and expand the makhana ecosystem, focusing on various areas such as research, quality seed production, farmer training, and improved marketing strategies.
Inaugural Meeting of the National Makhana Board
The ambitious program’s implementation began with the inaugural meeting of the National Makhana Board, held at Krishi Bhawan in New Delhi. Chaired by Devesh Chaturvedi, the secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the meeting aimed to operationalize both the Board and the Central Sector Scheme. During the session, members reviewed annual action plans submitted by various states and research institutions, approving budget allocations for different components of the program. This collective collaboration is designed to ensure the holistic development of the makhana sector across India.
Focus on Seed Supply and Training Programs
A significant point of discussion during the meeting was the need to streamline seed supply. The Board emphasized that seed requirements from states should be consolidated and fulfilled through the State Agricultural University (SAU) Sabour and the Central Agricultural University (CAU) Samastipur in Bihar for the current and upcoming years. To enhance skills and knowledge transfer, training programs will be conducted by the State Agricultural University, Central Agricultural University, Bihar, and the National Research Centre on Makhana in Darbhanga. These programs will concentrate on the latest technological advancements throughout the makhana value chain, promoting cultivation in both traditional and non-traditional regions.
Technological Advancements and Infrastructure Development
The National Makhana Board also underscored the importance of developing new cultivation and processing technologies, which include establishing infrastructure for grading, drying, popping, and packaging makhana. The Board aims to promote modern farming practices while enhancing value addition, branding, market linkages, and export readiness. The Ministry of Agriculture has stated that this foundational meeting has established a clear roadmap for the coordinated, scientific, and market-oriented growth of the makhana sector throughout the country.
Government Commitment to the Makhana Industry
The formation of the National Makhana Board aligns with the announcement made in the Union Budget for 2025-26 and was officially launched by Prime Minister Modi in Bihar. This initiative represents a significant commitment from the government to strengthen and modernize the makhana industry, ensuring its growth and sustainability in the years to come. The program’s multifaceted approach is expected to elevate the livelihoods of farmers and enhance the status of makhana as a crucial agricultural product in India.
Digihunt is not a financial advisor and this is not investment advice.
