The establishment of the National Makhana Board in Bihar marks a historic turning point for India's agricultural landscape. Officially announced in the Union Budget 2025-26 and inaugurated by the Prime Minister in Purnea, the board is the government's flagship response to the global surge in demand for healthy superfoods. Bihar, which produces over 90% of the world's makhana, finally has a dedicated central authority to streamline its "White Gold" economy.
A Strategic Vision for Bihar's Farmers
Headquartered in the heart of the Seemanchal-Mithila belt, the board oversees a comprehensive ₹476.03 Crore Central Sector Scheme (2025-2031). This initiative is not just about farming; it is about building a global brand. The board’s mandate focuses on four critical pillars:
1. Modernization of Cultivation: Moving beyond traditional pond-based labor, the board promotes field-system cultivation. This technique allows farmers to grow makhana alongside fish, doubling their income per hectare.
2. Quality Seed Production: In collaboration with SAU Sabour and NRC Makhana Darbhanga, the board is distributing high-yield varieties like Swarna Vaidehi and Sabour Makhana-1, which offer larger pop sizes (7+ Suta) and higher resistance to pests.
3. Infrastructure & Value Addition: A major challenge has been the "export gap," where Bihar grows the crop but other states handle the profitable processing. The board is addressing this by funding Common Facility Centres (CFCs) in districts like Katihar, Purnea, and Darbhanga for machine-popping, grading, and nitrogen-flushed packaging.
4. Export Readiness: With the introduction of specific HS codes and APEDA-backed quality certifications, the board is helping local producers like PLS Agro Foods meet the rigorous safety standards of the USA, EU, and Gulf markets.
Economic & Social Impact
The board's operations directly support over 10 lakh families, particularly the traditional Mallah community. By reducing the influence of middleman exploitation and providing direct market linkages, the board ensures that the premium paid by global consumers actually reaches the pockets of the Bihari farmer. As of early 2026, the board has already cleared Annual Action Plans to establish new cargo terminals and cold storage units near production clusters, ensuring that "Mithila Makhana" becomes a household name worldwide.
Align Your Business with the National Makhana Vision
Are you a farmer or buyer looking to benefit from the new Makhana Board schemes? PLS Agro Foods can guide you through the latest compliance and quality standards.