Makhana clusters in India
| Cluster | State / districts | Type | Season | Export gateway |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mithilanchal / Kosi-Seemanchal belt (Darbhanga-Madhubani ponds; Purnia-Katihar field cultivation) | Bihar — Darbhanga; Madhubani; Purnia; Katihar; Saharsa; Supaul; Madhepura | agricultural | Harvest Aug-Oct; sowing Nov-Dec (VERIFIED APEDA crop calendar) | Kolkata/Haldia (nearest) |
Cluster notes
GI: YES - 'Mithila Makhana' GI granted 16 Aug 2022 (VERIFIED via APEDA/ICRIER report + PIB). India production 63,910 MT (FY2024-25 final) and 80,590 MT (2nd adv est 2025-26); Bihar ~3/4 of India; exports 7,264.89 MT worth Rs 192.96 crore in 2025-26 (first year of dedicated HSN) - PIB Aug 2026 (VERIFIED, tier 1); Purnia 5.2k MT and Katihar 4.9k MT pop makhana 2021-22 (APEDA report) Assessment: Only ~40% of output exported; US/Canada/UAE take 77%; GI + new HSN code + National Makhana Board; premium markets (Germany, UK, Australia) pay $20-26/kg
Associations and directories
Export promotion and producer bodies relevant to makhana: APEDA.
Frequently asked questions
Which Indian state produces the most makhana?
Our cluster data lists Bihar as the main sources; see the table for districts and seasons.
When is the makhana season in India?
Bihar: Harvest Aug-Oct; sowing Nov-Dec (VERIFIED APEDA crop calendar).
How do you verify makhana suppliers?
We check registrations (GST, IEC, FSSAI or BIS where relevant), visit the unit, review past export documents and test a sample lot before listing a supplier.
Related
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