Patna: The six-day Bharat Parv festival held at the Red Fort complex on the occasion of Republic Day concluded on Friday, with Bihar’s tableau emerging as one of the biggest attractions of the event. Centered around Makhana—now widely recognised as a global superfood—the tableau drew massive crowds, with visitors enthusiastically clicking selfies and appreciating Bihar’s unique cultural and agricultural identity.
Organised by the Union Ministry of Tourism, Bharat Parv serves as a national platform to showcase India’s rich heritage, culture, and indigenous products. The prominent display of Makhana at such a prestigious event highlighted Bihar’s growing footprint in the global nutrition and wellness space.
Makhana: From Mithila’s Tradition to Global Superfood
Deeply rooted in Mithila’s culture and traditions, Makhana has evolved far beyond its conventional use in kitchens and religious rituals. Rich in protein, fibre, calcium, and essential minerals, it has gained popularity in nutrition, medicine, and international food markets.
With increasing health consciousness among consumers worldwide, Makhana is being recognised as a premium “superfood,” strengthening Bihar’s image as a hub of sustainable and health-oriented agricultural produce.
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Bihar Emerges as India’s Makhana Production Hub
Bihar accounts for over 85 percent of India’s total Makhana production, making it the undisputed leader in the sector. Key production districts include Darbhanga, Madhubani, Katihar, Araria, Purnea, Kishanganj, Supaul, Madhepura, Saharsa, and Khagaria.
The area under Makhana cultivation has expanded significantly—from around 13,000 hectares in 2012 to over 35,224 hectares today. State initiatives such as the Chief Minister Horticulture Mission and the Makhana Development Scheme (2019–20) have played a crucial role in boosting cultivation and productivity.
Improved varieties like Swarn Vaidehi and Sabour Makhana-1 have helped production cross 56,000 tonnes, directly enhancing farmers’ income and contributing to Bihar’s rural economy. Revenue from Makhana and fisheries water bodies has increased from ₹3.83 crore in 2005 to ₹17.52 crore in 2023–24.
National Makhana Board Opens New Growth Avenues
The formation of the National Makhana Board by the Centre is expected to strengthen the value chain from farm to market. The board aims to promote modern technology, quality seeds, processing units, packaging, and organised exports, while ensuring better access to training and financial support for farmers.
Darbhanga is being developed as a Makhana Training Hub, attracting farmers from other states such as Madhya Pradesh, reflecting Bihar’s growing leadership in the sector.
Rising Global Demand, Including the US Market
Bihar’s Makhana is witnessing rising demand in international markets, particularly in the United States. Its gluten-free nature, low glycaemic index, and high antioxidant content have positioned it as a healthy alternative to nuts and popcorn.
The GI tag has further strengthened its global credibility, ensuring authenticity and quality. Today, Makhana has transcended its traditional identity to emerge as a globally recognised superfood, placing Bihar firmly on the international agri-food map.
