The Makhana from Seemanchal is no longer limited to India; it has established a b presence in foreign countries as well. Meanwhile, new hope has been ignited among Makhana producers and traders with the upcoming visit of the country's Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, to Katihar.
Katihar: The land of Bihar's Katihar district has become famous not only in India but worldwide for its Makhana, which is rich in delicious and nutritious qualities. The Makhana from the Seemanchal region has now established a b identity in international markets. In this context, expectations are high that the Makhana industry will receive a new direction from the visit of the country's Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, to Katihar.
She will visit the Makhana center of industrialist Piyush Dokania located at Chandrama Chowk and will directly interact with local farmers, traders, and producers to discuss measures for strengthening the industry.
Katihar's Makhana Industry: Identity, Expansion, and Prospects
Katihar and its surrounding areas are renowned across the country for Makhana production. The quality and taste of the Makhana produced here have propelled it beyond the domestic market to achieve a significant position in international exports. Bihar's Makhana has reached numerous foreign markets, including America, Europe, and Gulf countries. This has not only led to an increase in farmers' incomes but has also provided new impetus to the economy of the Seemanchal region.
Local farmers state that Makhana cultivation has improved their standard of living. However, several challenges still persist, such as the complex process of exporting produce abroad, high transportation costs, and a lack of storage facilities. In this regard, the visit of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is considered a positive step towards resolving these issues.
Industrialist Piyush Dokania Explains
Piyush Dokania, an industrialist associated with the Makhana industry, highlighted the urgent need for a container depot in the Seemanchal region. Currently, the produced goods are first sent to Delhi and then exported to foreign countries from there. This process incurs additional transportation costs and time wastage, causing losses to both farmers and traders.
If a container depot facility is provided in Katihar or its surrounding areas, it will not only reduce costs but also simplify the export process. Furthermore, providing affordable storage facilities for Makhana could prove to be a game-changer for the industry. Large quantities of Makhana can be stored safely, ensuring supply according to the demand from foreign markets. This will lead to increased income for farmers and benefit exporters as well.
The livelihoods of thousands of farmers, laborers, and small business owners in Katihar and nearby areas are linked to the Makhana industry. Local people find employment at every stage, from cultivation to processing, packaging, marketing, and export. Therefore, promoting the industry will not only boost farmers' incomes but also accelerate economic activities throughout the entire region.
