Sanjay Singh, Patna: The year 2025-26 has brought golden memories for the Makhana farmers of Bihar. ‘Mithila Makhana’, which was once limited to local markets only, is now making its mark in foreign countries. It is a matter of pride for Bihar that this Makhana with special identity (GI-Tag) has been sent to Dubai (UAE) by sea route for the first time. This is being considered a huge success for the state.
The first consignment of 2 tonnes of Makhana was sent to Dubai on 21 January 2026 from Purnia district. This has been possible with the help of the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, Government of Bihar and export organization ‘APEDA’. This success has shown that Bihar’s Makhana is now second to none in the world in terms of high standards and good packing.
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New strength gained from Makhana Board and budget worth crores
To promote Makhana farming, the Central Government had formed the National Makhana Board in September 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself launched it in Purnia on 15 September 2025. About 5 lakh farmers are getting direct benefits from this board. Along with this, the government has approved a budget of about Rs 476 crore for the Makhana Development Scheme. This money is being used in purchasing good seeds, new machines, branding of Makhana and sending it abroad (export).
Farming increased three times, money reached farmers’ pockets
The effect of government help and new technology is now visible in the fields and ponds. In the last few years, the area under Makhana cultivation has increased almost three times. In the year 2012, where Makhana was grown in only 13,000 hectares, now it has increased to beyond 35,000 hectares. Districts like Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnia, Katihar and Saharsa have become big centers of makhana production. Due to this, the income of farmers has increased and the economic condition of the villages has improved significantly.
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Makhana will become brand Bihar
According to Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav, this year has been a history-making one for the Makhana of Bihar. Makhana reaching Dubai is proof that our farmers are now getting an opportunity to connect with the markets around the world. The government is now working to make Makhana famous all over the world as Brand Bihar. This will not only increase the income of farmers, but will also open new avenues of employment for the youth of the state.
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