Visit to Makhana-Producing Region

Union Agriculture Minister visited Darbhanga, Bihar, on February 23, 2025, alongside Bihar Deputy Chief Minister to engage with makhana producers.

Formation of Makhana Board

• Finance Minister announced the formation of a Makhana Board in Bihar.
• The board's framework will be developed with input from farmers, addressing their challenges.

Support for Makhana Cultivation

• Minister emphasized the significance of makhana as a superfood with potential global impact.
• He assured cooperation in marketing, branding, and packaging efforts for makhana.

National Research Centre for Makhana (NRCM)

• The Union Minister visited a makhana processing unit at the NRCM along with local dignitaries.
• He acknowledged Atal Bihari Vajpayee for establishing this center in Darbhanga.

Challenges and Solutions for Makhana Farmers

• Farmers face significant hardships in producing makhana.
• Advancements like thornless seeds and mechanization are expected to ease these challenges.

Future Directions for Makhana Board

• The board will focus on research, mechanization, and ensuring fair prices for producers.
• Aim to enhance the global popularity of makhana.

Other Remarks

• Minister advocated for one nation, one election to prevent developmental delays caused by frequent elections.