BAU Leads National Push to Expand Mithila Makhana Cultivation Across Five States

The Centre has assigned Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) in Sabour, Bhagalpur, the responsibility of expanding cultivation of the Geographical Indication-tagged 'Mithila Makhana' to five additional states as part of efforts to boost national production and prepare for exports. With the newly established National Makhana Board (NMB)—headquartered in Bihar but awaiting final location approval—the initiative targets Assam, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha in the first phase. BAU will train farmers and experts in these states on advanced techniques for cultivation, harvesting, and processing to adapt the crop to diverse agro-climatic conditions. This move aims to reduce Bihar's near-monopoly on makhana production, which currently accounts for over 90% of India's output, primarily from the Mithila region.

Makhana, or fox nuts, is a high-value, low-calorie superfood rich in protein, antioxidants, and minerals, traditionally grown in ponds and water bodies of North Bihar. The GI tag for 'Mithila Makhana' recognizes its unique quality linked to the region's soil and water. Expanding cultivation addresses growing domestic demand and positions India for global markets, where makhana is gaining popularity as a healthy snack alternative. BAU's expertise in research and development will focus on developing suitable varieties and sustainable practices tailored to the selected states' environments.

The project involves hands-on training programs, demonstration plots, and knowledge transfer to build local capacity. Officials believe successful expansion could significantly increase farmer incomes in water-abundant areas while promoting underutilized aquatic resources. The NMB is expected to coordinate marketing, branding, and export strategies once operational.

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This initiative aligns with broader agricultural diversification goals, leveraging Bihar's leadership in makhana to drive national self-sufficiency and economic growth. Stakeholders anticipate a phased rollout with monitoring to ensure quality standards match Mithila's renowned produce.

As implementation begins, the task underscores Bihar's pivotal role in elevating makhana from a regional specialty to a nationwide crop with international potential. Farmers in the target states stand to benefit from new livelihood opportunities through this structured expansion drive.

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