By November 12, 2025

Makhana also known as Fox Nut or Gorgon Nut, is fast becoming a profitable agribusiness in India, especially in Bihar. It is also called Black Diamond in Bihar. After harvesting from ponds, raw makhana seeds are cleaned, roasted, popped, and graded using modern processing machines. This converts hard black seeds into soft, edible white makhana, ready for packaging and export. With rising demand for healthy snacks, makhana processing units offer huge income potential. Government schemes under PMFME(Prime Minister Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme)and ODOP(One District One Product)also support entrepreneurs with training and subsidies.
In short,
Makhana processing = high demand + local resource + smart profit — a perfect opportunity for rural startup
The government offers up to 35% subsidy (max ₹10 lakh) to set up or upgrade micro food-processing units. Under ODOP, every district focuses on one signature product and in districts like Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Supaul, that star product is makhana. Small entrepreneurs are now building makhana roasting, grading, and packaging units, turning a humble local crop into a national brand. With government support, makhana isn’t just food anymore, it’s a symbol of rural entrepreneurship and self-reliant India. The demand for healthy and organic snacks is rising globally. With better packaging, branding, and e-commerce, Indian makhana can capture a large market share. Setting up a makhana processing unit not only provides profit but also generates local employment and supports India’s vision of self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat).