Makhana Gets a Boost: Union Budget Includes Proposal for Bihar Makhana Board

In a surprising move, the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's presentation of the Union Budget on Saturday included a proposal to establish a Makhana Board in Bihar to improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing of the popular snack. Bihar produces over 90% of makhana in India, and its Mithila variety has already won a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2022.

The inclusion of makhana in the budget is a testament to its growing popularity as a fitness-friendly snack, popularized by Bollywood celebrities. But does it deserve its superfood status? According to renowned nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar, makhanas have several health benefits, including:

• Being low in fat, sodium, and cholesterol, which can help lower blood pressure
• Having a low glycemic index, beneficial for diabetics
• Promoting kidney health due to its astringent properties
• Aiding in weight loss due to its high fibre and protein content

However, it's essential to exercise caution while consuming makhana. Excessive intake can lead to side effects such as bloating and constipation due to its high fibre content, and excessive calcium deposits in the body, affecting bone health.

Additionally, store-bought makhanas often have added salt or sugar content, which can increase blood pressure and risk of heart disease. Some individuals may also develop allergic reactions like cough and diarrhoea if they consume too many makhanas.

The Union Budget's inclusion of a Makhana Board in Bihar aims to boost production and marketing efforts, providing a platform for sustainable and responsible growth of the industry.

As the internet trends show, with over 20K searches on Google Trends in just 19 hours, it's clear that the humble makhana has captured the attention of many. Will this newfound popularity lead to more people incorporating makhana into their diets? Only time will tell.