Bihar, a state most of the time characterized by glorious history and poor economy, perhaps found the golden ticket to prosperity—Makhana. This humble fox nut, which floats in a bowl of kheer or is munched guiltlessly as a snack, can make a multi-billion agricultural powerhouse out of Bihar.
Makhana: Hidden Treasure of Bihar
It is mainly cultivated in Mithila of Bihar. More than 85 percent of India’s Makhana is produced in this state, making it, by far, the largest producer of Makhana in the world. With nutritional values par excellence and growing global demand, along with its recent superfood tag, Makhana can really do for Bihar what Basmati did for Punjab or saffron for Kashmir.
But the million-dollar question is, can Bihar actually grab this opportunity, or would it slip again another economic goldmine?
Rising Demand For Makhana
Makhana is not just a festive sweet anymore. The world has shifted toward a healthier lifestyle. Demand for plant-based, gluten-free, and high-protein foods is on the rise. Makhana is it. World’s fitness enthusiasts and wellness advocates adore it for being packed with protein and very low in calories and plentiful in antioxidants.
Makhana will soon join the ranks of quinoa, chia seeds, and avocados that have already made their mark in global superfood markets. Provided Bihar plays its cards right.
The Billion-Dollar Estimate
Industry estimates say that the global market for Makhana is going to touch the $100 billion figure by 2028. Being the biggest producer of Makhana, India also has the first-mover advantage. But industry-wise, even though Bihar produces the most of the state’s Makhana output, the processing and marketing industries do not belong to organized territory.
Currently, Makhana farmers earn minimal profits due to middlemen exploitation and lack of infrastructure. If Bihar can modernize its supply chain, invest in value-added products (Makhana-based protein bars, snacks, and powders), and tap into international markets, it could transform its rural economy and generate thousands of jobs.
Challenges in Bihar’s Makhana Industry
Lack of Proper Branding and Export Strategy: Unlike Basmati rice or Darjeeling tea, Makhana lacks geographical indication (GI) tagging and aggressive branding in the global market.
Primitive Harvesting Techniques: Farmers still rely on manual harvesting and sun-drying methods, leading to inconsistent quality and lower yield.
Middlemen Exploitation: The absence of direct farmer-to-market access results in most profits being siphoned off by intermediaries.
Limited Government Support: While recent policy changes have helped, Makhana cultivation still lacks the structured subsidies and research investment that crops like wheat or rice receive.
How Bihar Can Become the ‘Makhana Capital of the World’
Government Incentives: Policies supporting Makhana farmers with subsidies, mechanization, and easier loans can boost production.
Infrastructure Development: Setting up Makhana processing and packaging units can add value to raw produce and increase shelf life.
Direct Market Access for Farmers: Eliminating middlemen by introducing farmer cooperatives or direct-to-market platforms can increase profitability.
Branding & Export Promotion: Positioning Makhana as a premium superfood and securing GI tagging can create international demand.
Encouraging Startups & Innovation: Developing Makhana-based ready-to-eat snacks, protein powders, and health supplements can cater to urban consumers and global health markets.
The Road Ahead: Can Bihar Seize the Opportunity?
Bihar has long been seen as an underdog in India’s economic story. But with Makhana, it has a chance to rewrite that narrative. The global health food market is growing rapidly, and if Bihar can leverage this demand with smart policies, farmer-friendly initiatives, and aggressive global marketing, it can turn Makhana into a multi-billion-dollar industry.
Will Bihar rise to the challenge and embrace Makhana’s full potential, or will it let another golden opportunity slip away? The answer to that question will shape the state’s economic future.