Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Makhana Board in Purnea, Bihar, on Monday. The move, first announced in the Union Budget 2025, comes with a ₹475-crore development package. The government says the board will help boost makhana production, processing, and exports.
The new board will work on improving production standards, post-harvest management, value addition, and marketing. It will also support farmer-producer organisations and link makhana growers with central schemes.
Speaking at the event, PM Modi praised makhana as a health food and global export product. “I eat makhana at least 300 days a year. It is a superfood we must take to global markets,” he said.
Makhana, also called fox nut or the “Black Diamond,” is native to parts of Asia. Bihar produces nearly 90% of India’s supply, especially the Mithila variety, which holds GI-tag recognition.
Makhana is rich in protein, fibre, and minerals while being low in fat and gluten-free. Its rising demand has already opened export opportunities to the UAE, the US, Canada, and New Zealand.
Officials say the plan will modernise processing, improve packaging, and boost farmer incomes. Strong branding could make Mithila Makhana a premium global product.
