Assam farmers plan big push for Mithila makhana after learning Bihar’s methods

Makhana

Mithila Makhana, known globally as a superfood, is seeing rising demand as more people recognise its nutritional value and export potential. A group of farmers from Assam visited Bihar to observe and learn the traditional methods of Makhana cultivation.

The farmers said that several acres of land in Assam lie unused, often filled with natural pits, ideal conditions for this water-based crop. Since Makhana is both nutrient-rich and profitable, they believe it can offer a new source of income back home. They also learned about its benefits and cultivation techniques through the National Makhana Research Centre, reported by News18 Hindi.

After completing their training, the farmers plan to begin Makhana cultivation in Assam and promote it among others in their region.

Pradeep Googai, one of the visiting farmers, said, “We have just arrived from the Sonepur district of Assam. After observing and learning about Makhana cultivation here, we want to promote it in Assam and start cultivating it ourselves.”

Meanwhile, members of the Sushila Foundation for Agriculture Development, the Assam-based NGO that facilitated the visit, said this was their second exposure trip. Earlier, a smaller group of farmers had received initial information about Makhana, leading to trial cultivation in three districts.

This time, the foundation aims to scale up the effort. With support from NABARD, the NGO will provide Makhana seeds to farmers after training. NABARD will also assist with harvesting and packaging once the crop is ready.

The initiative has raised hopes for turning unused land in Assam into productive Makhana fields, potentially opening up new income opportunities for local farmers.