Rise of Makhana – India’s Superfood Revolution

Context: Recently the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare visited Bihar to interact with Makhana producers.

About Makhana/ Fox Nut

• It is a highly nutritious aquatic crop that grows in still or slow-moving water bodies like ponds, lakes and wetlands.
• It is known for its edible seeds, which are rich in protein, fiber and antioxidants.
• It is native to Southeast Asia and China.

Climate & Soil Requirements

• Grows best in a tropical and subtropical climate.
• Requires a hot and humid environment with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 35°C.
• Grows best in smooth loamy soil.

Water Requirements

• Grows in shallow water bodies with a depth of 1-2 meters.
• Requires clean, nutrient-rich and stagnant water for proper growth.

Makhana Production in India

• India is the largest producer of Makhana in the world.
• The major producing states are:
  • Bihar (90% of India’s production, mainly in the Mithilanchal region)
  • Other States: West Bengal, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur,Tripura etc.
• Despite Bihar producing 90% of the country’s makhana crop, the largest makhana exporters in India are Punjab and Assam.
  • Punjab does not even produce makhana.
  • Reason: Bihar neither has a developed food processing industry, nor required export infrastructure.

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