Makhana farming, once a defining feature of Mithilanchal, is now showing fresh signs of revival in East Champaran, bringing new hope for farmers and rural livelihoods. After the Government of India granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag to makhana, interest in this traditional crop has increased significantly, encouraging farmers to return to its cultivation as a viable source of income and employment.
Revival of cultivation in the Dhanouti river region
In the Banjariya block of East Champaran, the Dhanouti river area—once known for its quiet and underutilized landscape—is slowly coming alive again with makhana farming. Around 30 to 35 acres of land have been brought under cultivation. This initiative has been actively promoted by farmer leader and Chairman of the Bihar State Fishermen’s Commission, Lalan Kumar Sahni.
The effort marks an important step in restoring a traditional agricultural practice that had nearly disappeared from the region.
A challenging but rewarding crop
Makhana cultivation is far from easy. The crop grows in water bodies, and its plants are covered with sharp thorns, making fieldwork physically demanding and risky. Harvesting and seed extraction require significant manual effort and skill.
Another major challenge is the shortage of trained labourers. The traditional workforce skilled in makhana processing has declined over the years, making the revival even more difficult.
A tradition that faded with time
Earlier, makhana was widely cultivated in ponds and river systems across Champaran. However, over time, silt deposition in water bodies and migration of skilled workers led to a sharp decline in production. As a result, this once-thriving agricultural tradition nearly vanished.
Now, with the GI tag recognition, conditions appear to be changing, and farmers are gradually returning to this crop.
Better market access and income potential
The GI tag has given makhana a strong identity at both national and international levels. Farmers now expect better market access and fair pricing for their produce, which could significantly improve their income levels in the coming years.
Rising employment opportunities in villages
The revival of makhana farming is also creating new rural employment opportunities. Labourers who had migrated to other states in search of work are now returning to their villages to participate in cultivation and processing activities. This is helping strengthen the rural economy.
Government support and institutional push
According to District Agriculture Officer Manish Kumar Singh, after the formation of the Makhana Board, the government aims to bring more farmers into this sector. Support is being provided in the form of subsidies, training programs, raw material assistance, and marketing support to strengthen the entire value chain.
Local leadership driving change
Lalan Kumar Sahni noted that the impact of the GI tag is now clearly visible on the ground. Earlier, farmers struggled to get fair prices, but rising demand and recognition have increased enthusiasm among cultivators. He also took the initiative to clean parts of the Dhanouti river area to restart cultivation and involve local youth in the process.
Youth reconnecting with tradition
Local workers such as Rameshwar Chaudhary and Muni Sahni shared that employment opportunities are now available within their villages itself. Meanwhile, 70-year-old Rambaran Mahato recalls that his ancestors were also engaged in makhana farming, and now the younger generation is carrying forward this legacy.
Potential to become a major production hub
If this initiative continues successfully, East Champaran could emerge as a major makhana production hub after Mithilanchal. This would not only enhance farmers’ income but also help revive the region’s traditional agricultural identity on a larger scale.