The report was released at the First-ever International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) concluded in Patna, Bihar.
- Report has been jointly prepared by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
About IBSM
- IBSM was organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) in close partnership with the Government of Bihar, APEDA, and the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI).
- TPCI is an apex trade and investment promotion organization notified in the Foreign Trade Policy.
- Its objective was to boost food exports, unlock Bihar's rich agricultural potential, etc.
About Makhana (Euryale ferox)
- It is a popped expanded kernel of Gorgon nut, an aquatic crop that grows in stagnant water bodies such as ponds, lakes, and swamps.
- It grows well in tropical and sub-tropical climates and is mainly distributed in South-East and East Asian countries.
- Status: India dominates global production, accounting for 90 % of the supply, with Bihar (Mithila region) alone contributing 85–90 %.
- Despite high volume of production, only a small fraction approximately 1-2 % of total output is exported.
- Nutritional profile: Rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It is a low fat food.
- Benefits: low glycemic load food, anti-aging properties, etc.
