The Union Budget 2025-26 has announced the establishment of a dedicated Makhana Board to enhance production, streamline processing, and promote value addition. This move is expected to provide a major boost to the Makhana industry, benefiting farmers, traders, and exporters alike.
About Makhana (Euryale ferox)
Botanical and Ecological Significance
Makhana, scientifically known as Euryale ferox, belongs to the water lily family (Nymphaeaceae).
It is the only extant species in the genus Euryale and is mainly cultivated in stagnant water bodies like ponds and wetlands.
Climatic Requirements
Temperature Range: 20-35°C.
Humidity: 50-90% relative humidity.
Annual Rainfall: 100-250 cm.
Thrives in low-lying aquatic environments with abundant organic matter.
Major Producing Regions
India is the largest producer of makhana.
Bihar alone contributes ~90% of the country’s total production, with regions like Mithila being the hub of makhana farming.
Other producing countries include Korea, Japan, and parts of Eastern Russia.
Makhana and GI Tag
In 2022, ‘Mithila Makhana’ received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its unique quality and regional significance.
The GI tag helps in brand recognition, export potential, and ensures better prices for farmers.
Why is Makhana Important?
1. Nutritional and Health Benefits
Rich in proteins, fiber, and antioxidants.
Low in fat, making it an excellent snack for weight management.
Known for its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
Beneficial for diabetics due to its low glycemic index.
2. Economic and Agricultural Impact
Makhana cultivation provides employment to thousands of farmers, especially in Bihar.
The government’s focus on value addition will help in diversifying its uses beyond just roasted snacks—into flour, sweets, and nutritional supplements.
3. Boost to India’s Agricultural Exports
With growing global demand for organic and healthy foods, Makhana has significant export potential.
The formation of the Makhana Board aims to improve supply chains, research, and market linkage.
Government Initiatives for Makhana Development
Makhana Board (2025-26):
Aims to streamline processing, enhance productivity, and support farmers.
Will promote scientific research to improve yield and quality.
National Horticulture Mission (NHM):
Supports cultivation and post-harvest processing.
Provides subsidies for storage and transportation.
Export Promotion Schemes:
Incentives for makhana exporters under Agri-Export Policy.
GI-tagged ‘Mithila Makhana’ given special branding support.
UPSC Relevance
GS-3 (Agriculture & Economy): Government initiatives to promote traditional crops and their economic impact.
GS-3 (Environment & Ecology): Sustainable cultivation practices for aquatic crops.
GS-2 (Governance): Role of institutions like the Makhana Board in policy implementation.
UPSC Practice Question
Consider the following statements regarding Makhana (Euryale ferox):
Makhana belongs to the Nymphaeaceae family and is cultivated in stagnant water bodies.
India accounts for over 90% of global Makhana production, with Bihar being the leading producer.
The Mithila Makhana received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2022.
Makhana cultivation requires an arid and semi-arid climate with low humidity.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only
Ans-1,2 and 3 only