Purnia Makhana Booms: Youth Turn to Farming and Business

Makhana from Purnia is drawing fresh attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted it in the 139th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat'. The Prime Minister said Bihar's makhana has begun reaching Greece. Underlining the 'Vocal for Local' push, he said Indian goods are finding their way into global markets, which opens new avenues for farmers and local producers. Residents of the area have expressed happiness over his remarks.

Aditya Kejriwal, president of the Chamber of Commerce, said in conversation that the Prime Minister's reference to makhana makes the people of Purnia proud. He pointed out that during his Purnia visit, the Prime Minister had shared several views on expanding the makhana business, and that a number of measures for makhana have been taken since.

Kejriwal said the makhana trade has seen a clear shift in the last decade. Under Prime Minister Modi's encouragement, thousands of young people are now getting into makhana cultivation and commerce. Makhana, he said, has a global market today and is suitable for consumption in every way. He credited the Prime Minister with doing much for the makhana industry's development.

He further said makhana is being adopted as a superfood. Farmers did not previously earn good returns from it, but their income from makhana farming has now grown. Cultivation is becoming modern, and the government is offering subsidies on makhana farming.

Entrepreneurs from new backgrounds are also shifting toward makhana, stepping away from their traditional trades. Trader Aditya explained that business expands when the government provides a supportive framework. Today, makhana yields more profit than many other businesses. Makhana chips are sold in packets in several flavours, and the market is expected to become very large in the coming days. This is why many young people are drawn to the makhana industry and trade.

Finally, he requested that the makhana board be established in Purnia and not Darbhanga, as the raw material is available here.