Government Launches Rs 476-Crore Scheme to Support Makhana Sector Expansion in First Meeting
In a significant move to bolster India’s makhana industry, the Union government has approved a comprehensive development program with a budget of Rs 476.03 crore, spanning from 2025-26 to 2030-31. This initiative, launched on Friday, aims to modernize and expand the makhana ecosystem. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has outlined a multifaceted approach focusing on research, quality seed production, farmer training, and enhanced marketing strategies.
Inaugural Meeting of the National Makhana Board
The implementation of this ambitious program commenced 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 this session, members reviewed annual action plans submitted by various states and research institutions, approving budget allocations for different components of the program. This collaborative effort is designed to ensure the comprehensive development of the makhana sector across India.
Focus on Seed Supply and Training Programs
A key topic 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 focus 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 highlighted the importance of developing new cultivation and processing technologies. This includes creating infrastructure for grading, drying, popping, and packaging makhana. The Board aims to promote modern farming practices while strengthening value addition, branding, market linkages, and export readiness. The Ministry of Agriculture’s statement underscored that this foundational meeting has set a clear roadmap for the coordinated, scientific, and market-oriented growth of the makhana sector throughout India.
Government Commitment to the Makhana Industry
The establishment 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 on September 15 of this year. This initiative signifies a major commitment by the government to strengthen and modernize the makhana industry, ensuring its growth and sustainability in the coming years. The program’s multifaceted approach is expected to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and elevate the status of makhana as a vital agricultural product in India.
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