Makhana Mania: Why PM Modi is betting big on Bihar's superfood

As PM Narendra Modi promotes Bihar's Makhana on global platforms, it's clear this superfood is not just a health trend but a political and economic game-changer.

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

India's ancient superfood, Makhana, is gaining global recognition, thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strategic push. From international summits to diplomatic gifts, Modi has been actively promoting Bihar's prized fox nuts as a symbol of India's rich agricultural heritage and a key player in the organic food market. With Bihar accounting for almost 90% of India's Makhana production, this nutrient-rich snack is as much an economic and political changer as it is a health revolution.

The government's efforts in the form of enhanced Minimum Support Price (MSP), processing facilities, and export-oriented policy have further made Makhana a mighty tool in terms of rural livelihoods and Bihar's economy.

With the state preparing for elections, the BJP is capitalizing on Makhana's importance to reach out to farmers and traders, making political strategy depend on it. From Japan to America, and even Mauritius, the Makhana is no longer a local specialty—it is India's next global superfood.

WHERE HAS MODI PROMOTED MAKHANA? IN 2022, JAPAN

PM Modi made Makhana one of the prominent Indian superfoods while on his visit to Japan in 2022. Stressed for its wellbeing advantages, he requested Japanese companies to make it a healthy snack option. With the aim of promoting Makhana across the globe and spreading its market to countries beyond India, this was done.

G20 SUMMIT, NEW DELHI

PM Modi gave immense focus on India's indigenous foods—Makhana, say—during the G20 Summit. Having boosted Makhana as a superfood that gained global recognition, he urged heads of state to investigate its import as part of their nation's health-conscious food alternatives. The exercise elevated India's status within the international world of organic foods.

MANN KI BAAT