Republic Day 2026: Bihar Showcases Makhana’s Global Rise

From Mithila’s ponds to the world’s plate, Bihar showcases ‘Makhana: Local to Global’ at Bharat Parv 2026

By AMIT KUMAR

New Delhi, January 22, 2026 — At the Republic Day 2026 celebrations, Bihar’s tableau at Bharat Parv, organised by the Ministry of Defence at the Red Fort, will spotlight a unique success story rooted in tradition and powered by global ambition— “Makhana: From Local to Global Superfood.”

Bharat Parv, running from January 23 to 31, presents selected state and Union Territory tableaux that showcase India’s cultural, economic and social diversity under the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. Bihar’s tableau stands out by narrating the journey of makhana—often called fox nut or lotus seed—from the ponds of Mithila to international markets.

Often described as Bihar’s “white gold,” makhana has emerged as a global superfood. India supplies the majority of the world’s makhana, with Bihar contributing nearly 85–90 per cent of total production. In 2022, Mithila Makhana received the GI tag, cementing its distinct global identity.

The tableau visually captures makhana’s full value chain—from harvesting lotus seeds to roasting, grading, processing, packaging and quality control. Traditional labour is highlighted through scenes of women roasting makhana on earthen stoves and men processing it with wooden tools, underscoring local skills and women’s participation.

The spotlight on makhana gains added significance after the Union Budget 2025–26, which announced the establishment of a National Makhana Board in Bihar, backed by a ₹475-crore development package aimed at boosting farmer incomes, value addition and exports.

Nutritionally rich in protein, calcium and antioxidants, makhana is increasingly favoured by health-conscious consumers worldwide.

Through this tableau, Bihar sends a clear message: local knowledge, when combined with policy support and enterprise, can build a global identity.

Follow The Raisina Hills on WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn

Share on Facebook

Tweet

Follow us

Save

About The Author

amitkumar

Amit Kumar is a senior Delhi-based journalist with over two decades of reporting experience. His past has been with The Hindustan Times, Mid-Day, and others.

See author's posts