How is PM Modi Transforming Bihar's Agri Sector?

Patna, Sep 16 (NationPress) Just a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a significant development initiative for the Kosi and Seemanchal regions of Bihar, he announced the establishment of the National Makhana Board, the introduction of three new premium rail services, and the opening of Purnea airport.

Residents are expressing their appreciation for the Prime Minister's initiatives, particularly in the Kosi and Seemanchal areas.

During a rally in Purnea, PM Modi not only established the national makhana board but also approved a scheme valued at Rs 500 crore to promote Makhana, renowned as a superfood, for which India meets a substantial portion of global demand.

Notably, 85 percent of India’s Makhana is produced in Bihar, predominantly in districts such as Sitamarhi, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, Purnea, Kishanganj, Katihar, Samastipur, Khagaria, and Saharsa.

“The past decade has witnessed exceptional growth for Makhana farmers. With its health benefits and nutritional value gaining international recognition, farmers from Bihar are positioned at the helm of a global market worth approximately Rs 5,000 crore,” stated PM Modi.

The National Makhana Board, which was announced in the Union Budget for 2025–26 and is now officially formed, aims to provide technical and financial support to farmers, enhance modern production techniques, processing, and branding, bolster export opportunities and marketing infrastructure, and guarantee fair compensation for farmers, particularly small cultivators.

Farmers from the Kosi, Seemanchal, and Mithilanchal regions have welcomed the Union government’s decision to establish the National Makhana Board, considering it a significant advantage for both cultivation and market access.

Sudhir Kumar, a farmer from Madhubani, remarked that the board's establishment has invigorated producers.

“Farmers will receive subsidies, and the Makhana produced here will now access national and international markets without middlemen,” he added.

Another cultivator, Imitiaz Alam, highlighted that small farmers will benefit the most.

“They will be eligible for loans and grants, facilitating the establishment of industries. This improved market access will greatly benefit our community,” he noted.

For Shambhu Rai, whose family has been engaged in Makhana production for generations, the board signals a transformation of traditional practices.

“Previously, traders determined prices based on annual yield. Following the board’s establishment, farmers will receive equitable pricing. Even smaller farmers will have access to modern machinery, enhancing their self-sufficiency in production and processing,” Rai explained.

The National Makhana Board aims to enhance production, marketing, and value addition of Makhana.

It will also focus on innovating new technologies to boost yields, improve post-harvest management, and fortify infrastructure.

In addition to technical and financial support, the board is anticipated to facilitate branding, export, and market expansion for the crop.

PM Modi also inaugurated three premium trains from Seemanchal, including the Saharsa–Chheharta Amrit Bharat Express (via Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Gorakhpur, Ambala, Amritsar) and the Jogbani–Erode Amrit Bharat Express (via Purnea, Katihar, Barauni, Hajipur, Patna, Jabalpur, Nagpur, Chennai, Katapadi).

Although non-AC, the Amrit Bharat Express trains offer modern travel amenities such as mobile charging ports, disability-friendly toilets, radium floor strips, fire safety systems, and enhanced seating comfort.

In a significant infrastructural advancement, Purnea airport was also inaugurated, connecting the Kosi and Seemanchal regions to India’s aviation network.

This initiative is expected to stimulate both trade and tourism while offering improved access for the local populace.

Interestingly, even political adversaries have acknowledged the announcements.

Purnea MP Rajesh Ranjan, also known as Pappu Yadav, who is often associated with the Congress party, shared the platform with PM Modi and commended the initiatives.

“This marks a momentous occasion for the residents of Seemanchal. The Makhana Board, new trains, and airport will revolutionize the region’s economy,” Pappu Yadav stated.

Through these announcements, the Modi government has not only addressed the long-standing demands of Bihar’s farmers and travelers but has also conveyed a strategic political message ahead of the upcoming high-stakes Assembly elections.