Patna: In a bid to promote the cultivation and global competitiveness of makhana, the Bihar Agriculture Department has rolled out a new subsidy scheme for the financial year 2025–26. The initiative aims to support both new and existing makhana farmers by offering financial assistance for area expansion, improved seed production, seed distribution, and essential tool kits.
Eligible farmers from 16 makhana-producing districts in Bihar can apply for the scheme online via the Bihar Agriculture App or the Horticulture Directorate’s website by October 10, 2025.
Key Highlights of the Scheme
- Application Deadline: October 10, 2025
- Coverage Area: 0.25 acres (0.1 ha) to 5 acres (2 ha) per farmer
- Unit Cost for Cultivation: ₹97,000 per hectare
Subsidy Support:
- ₹36,375 per hectare (1st year) for new field-based makhana cultivation
- Seed subsidy up to ₹225 per kg for certified varieties
- Subsidised tool kits for all makhana cultivators
Online Application Portals: Bihar Agriculture App, Horticulture Directorate website
Read also: CM Nitish Kumar Launches Rabi Campaign 2025–26 in Bihar to Boost Crop Yield and Farmer Awareness
Focus on Area Expansion and New Farmers
The scheme especially targets first-time makhana growers under the Makhana Area Expansion Scheme, providing funding support for quality seeds, cultivation inputs, and harvesting. Farmers will receive partial payment upfront (to seed suppliers) and the remainder post-plantation.
Improved Varieties and Seed Subsidy
To enhance yield and quality, the department will promote Swarn Vaidehi and Sabour Makhana-1 varieties through the Makhana Seed Production and Distribution Schemes. Certified seed producers will be eligible for subsidies, and farmers can buy seeds at a subsidised rate of up to ₹225/kg. Any cost beyond this limit must be borne by the farmer.
Tool Kits for Efficient Makhana Farming
In addition to input subsidies, the scheme includes distribution of tool kits at subsidised rates to all farmers (raiyat and non-raiyat) engaged in makhana cultivation. These kits aim to modernize and ease the makhana farming process.
Districts Covered Under the Scheme
The scheme will be implemented in 16 districts, historically known for makhana farming:
Katihar, Purnia, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Kishanganj, Supaul, Araria, Madhepura, Saharsa, Khagaria, Samastipur, Bhagalpur, Sitamarhi, East Champaran, West Champaran, and Muzaffarpur
These districts represent Bihar’s makhana heartland, contributing significantly to India’s makhana exports and domestic supply.
Government’s Vision
With makhana gaining recognition as a nutrient-rich superfood worldwide, this initiative aligns with Bihar’s long-term agricultural strategy to transform makhana into a global commodity, while empowering local farmers and increasing rural income.
