Darbhanga: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in collaboration with the Central Farm Machinery Training & Research Institute (CFET), Ludhiana, has developed a Makhana seed extraction machine to simplify and reduce the cost of harvesting seeds from ponds and fields. The machine was recently demonstrated at the National Makhana Research Centre, Darbhanga, marking a major step toward modernizing Makhana cultivation.
Addressing a Key Challenge in Makhana Production
Seed extraction from ponds or fields is considered the most difficult and expensive part of Makhana cultivation. Traditionally, the process requires manual extraction in three stages, costing farmers ₹80–100 per kilogram of seeds.
The new machine allows efficient seed extraction directly from the pond or field bottom, reducing the cost to approximately ₹20 per kilogram, while saving time and labor.
Demonstration and Commercial Licensing
The machine was demonstrated in Darbhanga, and a patent application for the technology was filed in 2024. On March 9, 2026, a commercial production license was granted to Blacknut Agrifood Machinery Private Limited, Ambala.
The machine is expected to be available in Bihar by the end of July or August 2026, priced around ₹7 lakh. Farmers will also receive training and subsidies for using the machine.
Key Features and Benefits
- Operated easily by two trained personnel
- Daily seed extraction capacity of 700–800 kg
- Reduces labor cost significantly
- Simplifies the traditionally time-consuming process
- Enhances efficiency and boosts farmers’ income
Dr. R.K. Vishwakarma, senior scientist at the National Makhana Research Centre, highlighted that the machine can collect seeds in a clean and ready-to-use form, making the process faster and more cost-effective.
Scientists Behind the Innovation
The development of the machine involved key contributions from:
- Dr. R.K. Vishwakarma – Principal Scientist, National Makhana Research Centre
- Dr. Nachiket Kotwalivale – Director, National Makhana Research Centre
- Dr. S.N. Jha – ICAR Scientist
Dr. Manoj Kumar added that farmers would soon receive hands-on training to efficiently operate the machine and maximize its benefits.
Impact on Makhana Cultivation
The introduction of this machine is expected to:
- Reduce production costs
- Increase farmers’ profitability
- Encourage wider cultivation of Makhana across India
- Modernize the seed harvesting process for better efficiency
Farmers from Manigachhi and Bahadurpur have already expressed optimism, stating that the machine will make Makhana farming much easier and more profitable.
