Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a public rally in Bhagalpur, Bihar, emphasized the importance of Makhana (fox nuts) as a highly nutritious superfood. He shared his personal experience of regularly consuming Makhana for 300 out of 365 days a year, praising its immense health benefits. He also highlighted how it has become an essential part of breakfast in urban households across India. During the event, the Prime Minister was felicitated with a unique garland made of Makhana, symbolizing Bihar’s deep-rooted connection with this highly valued crop.
During his speech, the Prime Minister underscored the government’s commitment to boosting the production and marketing of Makhana, both within India and globally. He referred to the recent announcement in the Union Budget regarding the formation of a Makhana Board in Bihar, a move aimed at enhancing production, streamlining processing, improving value addition, and expanding the marketing of Makhana to ensure its availability in global markets. The establishment of this board is expected to bring much-needed support to the farmers and traders involved in Makhana cultivation, helping them access better infrastructure, modern farming techniques, and improved supply chains.
Bihar, known as the Makhana capital of India, contributes nearly 80% of the country’s total production of fox nuts. Despite this dominance, the state has struggled to fully leverage the increasing global demand for Makhana due to challenges in logistics, branding, and export infrastructure. With the government's renewed focus on this sector, there is optimism that Bihar’s farmers will gain better access to international markets and higher profits. The formation of a dedicated board is expected to bridge existing gaps, create new opportunities, and establish Bihar as a leading global supplier of premium-quality Makhana.
The rising popularity of Makhana is largely due to its numerous health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, Makhana is rich in fibre, protein, and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. It is known to help combat inflammation, slow down ageing, regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support heart health. Additionally, Makhana is a low-calorie, gluten-free snack, making it an ideal choice for people aiming for weight management and a healthy lifestyle. Its versatility allows it to be consumed in various forms, from roasted snacks to being used in kheer, curries, and energy bars.
With India increasingly promoting its superfoods on a global scale, Makhana has the potential to emerge as a major agricultural export. The government’s efforts to boost its production and value addition will not only benefit Bihar’s farmers but also contribute to India’s agricultural economy. If implemented effectively, these initiatives could make India a dominant player in the global health food market, with Makhana at the forefront. The Prime Minister’s endorsement of Makhana as part of his daily diet further strengthens its credibility, inspiring more people to incorporate this nutritious food into their lifestyles.
