COMMODITY
Makhana cultivation expands to 35,000 hectares across multiple states: Bhagirath Choudhary
Feb-05-2025

Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Bhagirath Choudhary has said that Makhana cultivation expanded from around 13,000 hectares to 35,000 hectares across multiple states. Over the years, 15,824.1 kg of high-yielding Makhana seeds have been distributed to farmers, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and organizations across various states. Significant beneficiaries include institutions like NABARD, fisheries departments, Bihar Horticulture Development Society and farmers from regions such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. 

The National Research Centre for Makhana (NRCM), Darbhanga, is a well-equipped facility dedicated to Makhana research and innovation, supported by a skilled team of scientists. Its key achievements include developing high-yield makhana and thornless water chestnut varieties, introducing water-efficient and integrated farming systems, and launching Makhana-cum-fish farming. The cultivation practices of Indian Lotus, medicinal plants like Acorus calamus (Sweet flag) and Alocasia montana have also been established.

The NRCM has trained thousands of farmers and entrepreneurs, driving regional industries and livelihoods.  Between 2012 and 2023, NRCM trained over 3,000 farmers in advanced Makhana cultivation, processing, and marketing techniques, focusing on water-efficient practices, cropping systems, and nutrient management.

Meanwhile, in the Budget 2025-26, the government announced a Makhana Board be established in Bihar, a key grower of nutri-rich food. The board will work to improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana.


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