How the Makhana Board announced in the Budget will help Bihar farmers?

In the Union Budget 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar, aimed at boosting the production, processing, and marketing of the state’s most iconic agricultural product makhana, also known as fox nuts. This move comes at a crucial time for Bihar, which produces about 90% of India’s makhana, yet struggles to fully capitalise on its potential due to issues such as low productivity, lack of food processing infrastructure, and inefficient marketing systems.

A Boost to Bihar’s Makhana Industry

Makhana is increasingly recognised globally as a superfood, valued for its rich nutritional properties and health benefits. However, despite the growing demand for this “healthy snack,” Bihar, which grows the bulk of the crop, has faced significant challenges in making the most of its position as the leading producer.