Farmers in Bihar are over the moon about the new National Makhana Board. On Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday, they sent warm congratulations and wished him a long, healthy life. This special move comes right after PM Modi launched the board in Purnea, Bihar, turning a big dream into reality.
The idea for the National Makhana Board was first announced in the Union Budget 2025. Makhana, often called fox nuts, is a super healthy snack packed with nutrients. Farmers mainly grow it in Bihar’s Seemanchal and Mithilanchal regions. They sow the seeds in ponds and lakes during March and April. The plant shoots up fast in the summer heat and monsoon rains of June and July. By August and September, workers wade into the water to pick the ripe pods. Back on land, they roast, crack, and sort the seeds by quality before packaging them for sale. It’s tough, hands-on work that powers Bihar’s makhana economy.
The government’s pumped in nearly Rs 475 crore to boost makhana production, processing, and exports. This funding aims to help farmers get better prices, including a fixed minimum support price (MSP), and put Bihar’s makhana on the global map. During the launch, PM Modi shared his love for the superfood. “I eat makhana at least 300 days a year,” he said. “It’s time we take this healthy delight to markets around the world.”
Local farmers and workers can’t stop talking about the benefits. Chandu Rishi, a makhana farmer and entrepreneur, told us, “This board will help us the most. Our product quality will go up, incomes will rise, and our hard work will finally pay off big time.” He also extended birthday wishes to PM Modi for many more healthy years.
Niresh Sharma, a daily wage worker in the makhana fields, is equally excited. “My earnings will increase with the board in place,” he said. “We’re so grateful to PM Modi. On his birthday, we pray for his long life.”
Entrepreneurs like Manish Kumar see even bigger wins. “A fixed MSP will lift farmers, businesses, and the whole industry,” he explained. “PM Modi is like the brand ambassador for makhana now. Soon, it’ll be famous everywhere.” He thanked the Prime Minister for this game-changing step.
The National Makhana Board will focus on key areas like improving farming standards, better storage after harvest, modern tech for processing, and new ways to add value. It will also build stronger links for marketing and exports, while helping farmer groups tap into central government schemes. Officials say this will boost incomes and help makhana reach more homes in India and abroad.
For Bihar’s farmers, this feels like a fresh start for their traditional crop. With government support and their dedication, makhana is set to shine as a top superfood on the world stage.
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