During a rally in Bhagalpur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of Makhana, or foxnut, which he consumes “at least 300 out of 365 days.” He advocated for promoting this traditional Bihar crop on a global scale, highlighting its emergence as a staple breakfast item nationwide. As part of this initiative, a Makhana Board will be created to enhance farmer livelihoods through better marketing strategies. Modi also announced the achievement of establishing 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) across India, with Bihar hosting the milestone organization. Additionally, he reiterated government support for farmers through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme.
Bhagalpur:
On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi disclosed that he consumes the “superfood” Makhana (foxnut) “at least 300 out of 365 days” and urged for the global production of this traditional crop from Bihar, which has become a breakfast staple in cities nationwide.
“Makhana has indeed become a staple breakfast item in cities throughout the country. Personally, I eat makhana at least 300 days a year. It is a superfood we must now promote in global markets. That is why this year’s budget includes the establishment of a Makhana Board to assist makhana farmers,” he stated at a rally in Bhagalpur.
The Prime Minister noted that this initiative will prioritize value addition, improved marketing strategies, and enhanced livelihoods for farmers in Bihar.
Upon arriving at the rally for the release of the 19th instalment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) in the state, the Prime Minister was warmly welcomed and adorned with a large garland made from foxnuts.
During his address, PM Modi remarked, “In recent years, thanks to government efforts, the agricultural export sector has expanded significantly. As a result, farmers have been receiving better prices for their produce. Many farmer products are now being exported for the first time. Now is the time for Bihar’s foxnuts, ‘Makhana.’
“Makhana has integrated into breakfast in cities across the country. Personally, I eat makhana at least 300 out of 365 days a year. It is a superfood we need to take to international markets,” he reiterated.
“Whether it’s the superfood Makhana or Bhagalpur’s silk, our focus is on promoting such unique products of Bihar in markets around the globe,” added PM Modi.
Prime Minister Modi expressed that this year’s budget continues to further his vision for farmers’ welfare, introducing the ‘PM Dhan Dhanya Yojana.’
This initiative will identify 100 districts nationwide with the lowest crop production and initiate special campaigns to enhance agricultural practices in these regions.
He also celebrated reaching a significant milestone, announcing that the government aimed to establish 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) across the country, a target that has now been met.
PM Modi proudly stated that Bihar will house the 10,000th FPO, which will concentrate on crops such as maize, bananas, and paddy.
He mentioned that the FPO has been registered in Khagaria district, marking a crucial step in supporting farmers and reinforcing local agricultural practices.
A large crowd gathered at the rally to witness Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Yojana, a Central Sector Scheme initiated on February 24, 2019, offers annual financial support of Rs. 6,000 to each eligible farmer family. To date, over Rs 3.46 lakh crore has been distributed to more than 11 crore farmer families in the nation through 18 instalments.
The Bihar Legislative Assembly elections for all 243 constituencies are scheduled to take place in October or November this year. The last assembly elections were conducted in October-November 2020.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)