“Navigating the Government Connect: Unlock Grants, Subsidies, Policy Alignment & Zero-Cost Growth Opportunities”
Budget 2025-26: MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE; DEMAND NO. 1; Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare…
19. Support for Makhana Board:..To be established in Bihar for improving production, processing, value addition and marketing of Makhana.
Scheme Overview:
Newly proposed board to transform Bihar’s ₹2,500 crore makhana (foxnut) economy through:
• Yield enhancement (From 1.2 to 2.5 MT/ha)
• Processing modernization (Reduce post-harvest losses <10%)
• Branding & exports (Target: 20% production for global markets)
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Part 1: Implementation Blueprint
(Based on Similar State Boards like Jharkhand Silk Textile Board)
1. Governance Structure
Tier Responsible Agency Startup Entry Point
State Level Bihar Makhana Board (BMB) + Agriculture Dept Empanelment as "Tech Partner"
District Level 10 Cluster Offices (Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi) Pilot projects via District Agri Officers
Field Level FPOs (50+ targeted) Contracting for seed/processing units
2. Fund Allocation Pattern
• 60% Production (₹150 crore): Hybrid seeds, pond redevelopment
• 30% Processing (₹75 crore): Mini-plants, packaging units
• 10% Marketing (₹25 crore): GI tagging, e-NAM integration
3. Key Policies Referenced
• Bihar Food Processing Policy 2023 (50% subsidy for first 100 units)
• PMFME Scheme (₹10 lakh grant for SHG-led units)
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Part 2: Startup Opportunities – From Ponds to Global Markets
1. Precision Cultivation Tech
Solutions Needed:
• IoT water quality monitors (Optimal pH: 6.5-7.5)
• Mechanical harvesters (Replacing manual diving)
Subsidy: 40% under RKVY-RAFTAAR
2. Value-Chain Innovations
High-Impact Areas:
• Peeling automation (Current 8 hrs/kg → Target 1 hr/kg)
• Nutraceutical extraction (Omega-3 from makhana waste)
Funding:
• 75% grant for prototypes via Bihar Innovation Lab
3. Direct-to-Consumer Brands
Differentiation Strategies:
• GI-tagged "Bihar Makhana" packaging
• Ready-to-eat flavored snacks (Haldiram’s tie-ups)
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Part 3: Founder’s Action Plan
Phase 1: Cultivation Tech (2024-25)
• Pilot 10 pond sensors in Darbhanga (BMB funding)
• Develop semi-mechanical harvesters (₹5 lakh unit cost)
Phase 2: Processing (2025-26)
• Set up 5-tonne/day peeling unit (PMFME subsidy)
• Partner with CSIR-CFTRI for shelf-life extension
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Part 4: Financial Viability
1. IoT Pond Monitoring (100 ponds)
Investment ₹25 lakh Annual Revenue ₹50 lakh
BMB Grant ₹10 lakh ROI 18 months
2. Mini-Processing Unit
Capacity 2 MT/day Employment 15 women/SHG
Profit/kg ₹200 Breakeven 8 months
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Part 5: Risk Mitigation
Risk Solution
Yield Fluctuations Insurance via PMFBY (New makhana module)
Market Access Pre-book through NDDB’s e-SANTA
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Pro Tip: Target Japan/SE Asia exports where makhana sells at ₹800/kg (vs. ₹300 domestically).
