India Dominates Global Makhana Production with 80% Share

Makhana Production in India

New Delhi, Dec 16: India stands as the leading producer of makhana globally, contributing nearly 80% to the world's total output, as reported in Parliament on Tuesday.

Bihar plays a crucial role in this sector, accounting for approximately 85% of the country's makhana production, with Darbhanga recognized as a significant center for both cultivation and processing.

In a written statement to the Rajya Sabha, Ramnath Thakur, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, highlighted Darbhanga's reputation for its robust potential in makhana cultivation and processing.

“Darbhanga district is well-known as a primary hub for Makhana production in Bihar, acknowledged for its strong capabilities in cultivation and processing,” the minister stated.

The district is home to the ICAR-National Research Centre on Makhana and has been selected under the One District One Product initiative, underscoring its significance in this industry.

Thakur emphasized that the makhana sector has substantial potential to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and fishermen, particularly in regions where this crop is prevalent.

To harness this potential, the government has established the National Makhana Board, as per a gazette notification dated September 14, 2025.

This board is tasked with improving production, processing, value addition, marketing, and export promotion of makhana throughout the nation.

Key objectives of the National Makhana Board include boosting productivity through scientific research, enhanced farming techniques, and advanced harvesting and processing technologies.

These initiatives are anticipated to fortify the entire value chain, benefiting everyone from farmers to exporters.

Additionally, the government has sanctioned a Central Sector Scheme for the Development of Makhana, with a budget of Rs 476.03 crore allocated for six years, spanning from 2025–26 to 2030–31.

This scheme aims to support research and innovation, the production and distribution of quality seeds, skill development for farmers and stakeholders, improved post-harvest management, value addition, branding, marketing, and export promotion to enhance India's presence in the global makhana market.