Makhana Development Scheme 2026-27 has been introduced to promote makhana production and strengthen the entire value chain associated with the crop. Under the scheme, applications have been arranged for farmers, traders and FPOs.
The programme focuses not only on makhana cultivation but also on seeds, training, post-harvest management, branding, markets, exports and certification. The objective is to connect farmers, traders and FPOs with the complete makhana value chain so they can get better market opportunities and improve their income.
The scheme will be implemented in 21 districts. These include Katihar, Purnia, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Kishanganj, Supaul, Araria, Madhepura, Saharsa, Khagaria, Samastipur, Bhagalpur, Sitamarhi, East Champaran, West Champaran, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj and Patna.
Under the scheme, a farmer can receive benefits for a minimum of 0.25 acre (0.1 hectare) and a maximum of 5 acres (2 hectares) of land.
According to the National Makhana Board scheme, government assistance of ₹79,000 has been fixed for makhana production.
In addition, assistance of up to ₹2 lakh is available for establishing a production management unit at the farm level.
Assistance for Makhana Processing Units:
Government assistance for makhana processing units will be provided according to the category of the unit:
Support for Sales, Branding and Exports:
The scheme also provides financial assistance to strengthen makhana marketing and sales infrastructure.
Up to ₹10 lakh will be provided for setting up a makhana sales centre. For participation in national and international exhibitions, assistance of up to ₹25 lakh is available.
For export certification, government assistance of up to ₹2.5 lakh has been provided, while up to ₹25 lakh can be provided for branding and marketing.
Focus on Women's Participation:
According to the MIDH guidelines, expenditure under the scheme will be ensured at 83.903% for the general category, 15% for Scheduled Castes and 1.097% for Scheduled Tribes.
The scheme will also make efforts to ensure that 30% of the beneficiaries are women farmers.
Implementation as per National Makhana Board Guidelines:
The scheme will be implemented according to the guidelines of the National Makhana Board. Its objective is not limited to increasing makhana production but also includes strengthening the entire process from cultivation to marketing and exports.
The programme will therefore focus on providing makhana producers with better market access and export opportunities, along with strengthening activities such as production management, processing, branding and certification.
FAQs:
1. What is the Makhana Development Scheme 2026-27?
It is a government scheme designed to promote makhana production and strengthen activities such as cultivation, processing, branding, marketing and exports.
2. How much assistance is available for makhana production?
Eligible beneficiaries can receive assistance of up to ₹79,000 for makhana production, as per the scheme provisions.
3. What is the maximum land area covered?
A farmer can receive benefits for up to 5 acres or 2 hectares of land.
4. How much assistance is available for processing units?
Depending on the unit category, assistance can range from ₹5 lakh for micro units to ₹3.5 crore for large processing units.
5. Can women farmers benefit from this scheme?
Yes. The scheme aims to ensure that 30% of beneficiaries are women farmers.
