Makhana, or fox nuts, are an exotic aquatic crop historically rooted in Indian culture. With its nutritional benefits, it is consumed as a food alternative, whether in traditional sweets, savory dishes, or simply as a healthy snack. As the demand for makhana is increasing, both domestically and internationally, the makhana price per kg has seen a regular increase over several years, thereby positioning this crop as a profitable agricultural product.
When it comes to the production of makhana lotus seeds (Makhana Farming), Bihar is the leading state in India, contributing close to 90% of India’s total production. With abundant water bodies, climate adaptability, and a traditional knowledge system in cultivation, Bihar is hence often referred to as the Makhana Hub of India. In the blog, we will discuss history and cultural importance, production, challenges faced, and future prospects of makhana farming in Bihar.
The History and Cultural Significance of Makhana
Makhana has been cultivated in India for centuries, especially in the Mithilanchal region of Bihar. Ancient texts and Ayurvedic scriptures mention puffed lotus seeds as medicinal and believed to enhance strength and vitality. It has been part of traditional Indian rituals, offered to deities, and an important offering during fasting periods.
Besides its religious and cultural importance, makhana food has gotten immense popularity as a superfood because of its rich nutritional profile. It is a protein-rich, low-calorie, and gluten-free food that’s favored by health-conscious eaters. In India, Makhana has become a breakfast staple in many cities. Recently, the prime minister said at a rally in Bhagalpur, ”Personally, I have at least 300 days off in 365 days to eat makhana. It is a superfood that we must now take to global markets. Hence, in this year’s Union Budget 2025-26, the government has announced the formation of a Makhana Board for the benefit of Makhana farmers.”
Why Bihar Leads in Makhana Production
Makhana lotus seeds production in Bihar is attributed to a variety of reasons:
- Favorable Geographical Conditions
The natural ponds and wetlands of the state furnish the ideal ecosystem for makhana cultivation. The humid climate and water retention capacity would make it the best suitable habitat for this aquatic crop. - Traditional Expertise and Skilled Farmers
Makhana cultivation is the age-old tradition of Bihar that has carried on through the generations. Farmers in such regions as Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Purnia have amazing experiences about the cultivation operations and ensure high-quality production of makhana (best makhana). - Government Initiatives and Support
Due to the economic potential of phool makhana, the Bihar and Indian governments have come up with schemes for supporting farmers through different types of subsidies. Organizations such as ICAR have made attempts to research better production and yield. In 2002, the Makhana Vikas Yojana was initiated by the Department of Agriculture in Bihar to increase Makhana cultivation and productivity in 10 specified districts of the state. The scheme provides training for farmers and grants for traditional equipment to be used in Makhana cultivation and processing.
Besides, last year in Patna, Bihar Agriculture Minister Mangal Pandey mentioned that the state government, under the directive of CM Nitish Kumar, was actively supporting Makhana cultivation, processing, and trade. Further strengthening support, the Union Budget 2025-26 by the Indian government announced the formation of a dedicated Makhana Board to benefit Makhana farmers, ensuring better development opportunities and market access.
How Makhana is Made: From Pond to Plate
Makhana farming possesses a very interesting production process, on account of its labour-extensiveness and complications. And here, let’s take a detailed look at how roasted makhana gets onto our plates.
- Cultivation in Water Bodies
Makhana is typically grown in shallow ponds, lakes, and wetlands. During the early months of monsoon, in the mud of submerged water bodies, the seeds are manually sown by the farmers. Slowly, these seeds sprout into water lilies and give way to makhana lotus seeds.
- Harvesting the Seed
To harvest makhana, one should be willing to work very hard. Farms are waded through to harvest the seeds, using traditional tools; this is quite a manual job. The seeds, however, are dried in the sun before they are processed.
- Roasting and Popping the Seeds
On a sand-filled pan over fire, temperatures are very high. Slowly, the seeds pop open, similar to popcorn, and reveal a white edible kernel inside. This stage requires technique: if overheated, the seeds could be rendered unfit for the market.
- Cleaning and Packaging
Puffed lotus seeds are now cleaned, sorted, and classified according to their size and quality. The price of the most relevant flavor phool makhana is fairly high in the market.
Challenges Faced by Makhana Farmers
Makhana farming, to mention but a few, is a very profitable farming enterprise, but nevertheless, it is not without challenges. Some of the major problems faced by the farmers include:
- Labor-Intensive Process
Beginning from cultivation through processing, makhana farming involves a lot of manual labor. Until mechanization comes to the aid of farmers, this will always be labor-intensive and particularly cumbersome. - Market Price Fluctuations
Makhana Price per kg depends on demand, quality, and market conditions. Often the farmers remain severely pressed by the middlemen against getting a good price. - Climate Change Impact
Weather-related events, pollution of water bodies, and dwindling wetland habitats remain a constant looming threat to makhana harvests. - Need for Modern Technology
Processing of makhana is quite slow and involves traditional processes. Technological intervention is desperately needed to go on with optimum productivity at a fair cost.
Future of Makhana Farming in India
Because of the growing awareness of makhana food and its health benefits, the demand for roasted makhana will grow further. Some of these factors that may shape the future of makhana farming:
- Increasing Popularity as a Superfood
This has been the global shift to healthier snack options that has made puffed lotus seeds popular among health-conscious consumers. With the rise of fitness trends and preferences for plant-based diets, demand has mostly risen. - Government Policies and Incentives
Indian government initiatives to support makhana farmers with subsidies, training, and research will result in a significant increase in production and profitability, If implemented properly.
With its unparalleled contributions to the global market, Bihar ranks with both legacies and titles alike in terms of her contribution to India’s makhana business. Against all odds, with the right compound of technology, government support, and market expansion, the future for Makhana farming looks bright. Makhana farming could become one of the most sustainable and highly profitable branches of agriculture by increasing awareness, upgrading farming methods, and on the assurance of fair prices. Owing to its rich nutrition values and demand globally, it has the potential to become one of India’s leading export products, bolstering India’s economy and improving farmers’ livelihoods. Investment in modern processes and innovative areas in marketing would strengthen India’s position as the world leader in Makhana production.