Patna, Aug. 7: Bihar on Friday exported 18 tonnes of makhana (fox nuts) to Australia, marking another step in expanding the global presence of one of the state’s most prominent agricultural products. The consignment, comprising seven containers, was flagged off by Bihar Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha from the Sikandarpur Industrial Area in Bihta, near Patna.
Addressing the event, the minister said the export reflects Bihar’s growing strength in agricultural production and presents an opportunity to introduce the state’s farming traditions and the cultural heritage of the Mithila region to international markets.
He added that increasing exports of locally produced goods supports the broader vision of promoting Indian products globally while encouraging self-reliance.Officials from the Agriculture Department said the shipment was prepared in collaboration with a private supply chain partner operating in the Bihta industrial area.
The consignment will be transported to the Inland Dry Port at Bihta before being moved by rail to Kolkata, from where it will be shipped to Australia by sea.Before the flag-off ceremony, the minister inspected the processing and packaging facilities, reviewed quality standards, and interacted with workers involved in preparing the export consignment.
Farmers from several makhana-producing districts, including Darbhanga, Purnea, Araria and Katihar, also attended the programme. During the interaction, cultivators highlighted concerns over limited access to government support schemes, inadequate marketing facilities and low prices for their produce.
They urged the government to improve market infrastructure and ensure better returns for farmers.Responding to their concerns, the minister assured the farmers that welfare initiatives for the sector would be implemented more effectively and that the government would continue efforts to strengthen support for makhana cultivation and marketing.
The latest shipment follows Bihar’s export of seven tonnes of makhana to Canada last week, indicating growing overseas demand for the nutrient-rich food.Makhana, obtained from the seeds of the aquatic plant Euryale ferox, is widely valued for its nutritional qualities.
It is rich in protein, fibre, antioxidants and essential minerals while being low in fat and calories, making it increasingly popular in health-conscious markets.Bihar accounts for nearly 80–90 per cent of India’s makhana production, with cultivation spread across major districts such as Darbhanga, Madhubani, Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Katihar, Purnea and Kishanganj.
The crop received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2022, strengthening its identity in domestic and international markets.Officials believe continued exports and improved value-chain infrastructure could enhance farmers’ incomes and further establish Bihar as a leading global supplier of premium-quality makhana.
