Patna: Makhana farming, a cultural and economic lifeline for millions in Bihar, is under severe threat from climate change, with erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and drying wetlands slashing production.
A new report, “Climate Change and Makhana Farmers of Bihar,” launched by Cooperative Minister Prem Kumar, reveals that 40 rivers dried up by March 2024, and lowland wetlands faced acute water shortages, delaying planting and risking collapse of the sector that produces 85% of India’s makhana. Traditional farmers, mostly landless and from marginalized communities, also face market volatility and exclusion from government subsidies, worsening their plight.
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The report, prepared by Asar Social Impact Advisors and Regenerative Bihar, highlights that makhana cultivation in Mithila and Seemanchal requires 1000–2500 mm of rainfall, 20–35°C temperatures, and 50–90% humidity, but 2024 saw only 800 mm of rain, temperatures above 40°C, and humidity as low as 40%. This has crippled the 15,000 hectares under cultivation, which yield 10,000 tonnes of popped makhana annually. Women, who dominate processing tasks like roasting and popping, remain underpaid and lack social security.
Key recommendations include extending pond lease terms, declaring a Minimum Support Price (MSP), integrating makhana with fish and water chestnut farming, and linking farmers to schemes like MGNREGA and Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission. The report, based on 18 months of fieldwork in Madhubani, Darbhanga, Saharsa, and Supaul, urges equal access to subsidies for landless farmers and training in climate adaptation.
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Speaking on the occasion, Cooperative Minister Prem Kumar emphasized government efforts, noting 21 new cooperative societies in Madhubani and Darbhanga and women-led makhana companies in districts like Kishanganj and Purnea. He pledged to implement the report’s solutions to bolster this climate-resilient crop, which enjoys rising global demand but leaves its traditional cultivators struggling.
The Minister further said that more cooperative societies would be formed to cater to production, processing and marketing of makhana being produced in Seemanchal regions including Saharsa, Araria, Purnea, Katihar, Kishanganj, Supaul, etc.
