In Purnia, Bihar, 17 September (IANS) Farmers, pleased with the formation of the National Makhana Board, congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday on Wednesday and prayed for his long and healthy life.
On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally launched the National Makhana Board in Purnia, Bihar, a historic initiative proposed in the Union Budget 2025 for the first time.
Makhana, a nutrient-rich superfood is mainly cultivated in the limits of Bihar and Mithilanchal areas, sown in March-April and is harvested during August-September.
Farmers and entrepreneurs believe that the construction of the board will bring significant benefits, including the minimum support price, better income opportunities and global recognition for makhana.
The government has approved a development package of about Rs 475 crore for the sector, aimed at increasing the production, processing and global exports of Makhana, which is also known as Fox Nut.
Speaking at the launch, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of Makhana as both health food and export-oriented objects. He said, “I eat at least 300 out of 365 days a year to Makhana. This is a superfood that we should now take to the global markets,” he said earlier.
Sowing of Makhana seeds begins in March and April, usually in ponds and lakes. The crop increases rapidly during summer and monsoon months of June and July.
By August and September, when the pod matures, the workers launched them in the water to collect them. The seeds are roasted, torn, and sorted before the quality is packed for sale in markets. This process, although labor-intensive, in Bihar, becomes the backbone of the economy.
Farmers and workers have expressed optimism about the impact of the board.
Makhana entrepreneur and farmer, Chandu Rishi told IANS, “With the new Makhana Board, we will be the most beneficial. Product quality will also increase. Income will also increase. Income will also increase. We will work hard. We work hard, and therefore the new board will give us profits.”
Chandu also wished PM Modi a long and healthy life on his 75th birthday.
Neres Sharma, a laborer working in Makhana Fields, also expressed enthusiasm and said, “My daily wages will increase after the establishment of the new board. We are satisfied and thank PM Modi for this. Since this is the Prime Minister’s birthday, we pray for his long life.”
Farmers and entrepreneurs throughout the region described the Prime Minister’s move as “appreciated” and welcomed the initiative as a step which would uplift everyone in the region.
Manish Kumar, an entrepreneur associated with Makhana cultivation, said, “After the formation of the board, a certain MSP will be established, which will not only benefit the farmers and entrepreneurs, but also provide new opportunities for the industry. Thanks to the Prime Minister for this initiative.
The newly established Makhana Board is expected to focus on raising production standards, improving post -cutting management, adopting modern technologies and focusing on the expansion of value in the industry.
It will also strengthen marketing and export linkage by increasing support to farmer-producing organizations. Officials mentioned that the body will help the cultivators of Makhana to reach various central schemes, which will promote income and expand the reach of the region globally.
This initiative has already created enthusiasm among stakeholders, which see it as a significant turn for the traditional crop of Bihar. With the support of the government and the commitment of the farmers, Makhana is ready to secure a prominent place in both domestic and international markets.
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SD/DPB