In a strategic move ahead of the state’s upcoming Assembly elections, the Bihar government has made a resolute plea to the Centre for a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for makhana, a significant aquatic crop cultivated extensively throughout the state. This demand, coupled with concerns regarding the understaffed and “deteriorating” state of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Research Centre (ICAR-NRC) for Makhana in Darbhanga, was voiced by Bihar Agriculture Minister Mangal Pandey during a high-level meeting with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Makhana’s Economic Significance in Bihar: A Lifeline for Rural Communities
Makhana, a GI-tagged crop predominantly grown across ten districts in Bihar, plays a pivotal role in the state’s agricultural landscape. It not only contributes a staggering 85% to the country’s total makhana production but also sustains the livelihoods of approximately 10 lakh individuals directly or indirectly involved in its cultivation and production. Recognizing the crop’s importance for impoverished farmers, the Bihar government’s push for MSP is a critical step towards ensuring their economic security.
Political Ramifications: MSP Demand and the Upcoming Elections
The Bihar government’s demand for MSP for makhana is particularly noteworthy given the impending state Assembly polls. With the NDA’s vote share experiencing a decline in the recent Lok Sabha elections, despite securing 31 out of 40 seats, the JDU’s influence within the alliance has grown substantially. The MSP demand is seen as a strategic move by the Bihar government to solidify its support base among the state’s makhana farmers.
Resurgence of the ICAR-NRC for Makhana: A Need for Urgent Revitalization
Minister Pandey also drew attention to the dire situation at the ICAR-NRC for Makhana in Darbhanga, emphasizing the urgent need for its revitalization. The center is grappling with a severe manpower shortage, operating with only 10 employees against a sanctioned strength of 42. The absence of administrative staff and a full-time director further exacerbates the issue. The minister urged for the center’s administrative headquarters to be shifted from Ludhiana to Patna, a move that could potentially streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
A Turbulent Past and a Hopeful Future
The ICAR-NRC for Makhana has had a tumultuous history, facing merger and subsequent loss of its “national” status in 2005. However, the Central government restored its status in May 2023, expanding its mandate to include other aquatic crops and fish. Despite this positive development, the center’s current state necessitates immediate attention and investment to ensure its effective functioning.
Key Takeaways:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Crop in Focus | Makhana (aquatic crop) |
| Issue | Bihar government demands Minimum Support Price (MSP) for makhana and highlights issues at ICAR-NRC |
| Political Context | Upcoming Bihar Assembly elections and JDU’s growing influence within the NDA coalition |
| Way Forward | Revitalization of ICAR-NRC for Makhana in Darbhanga |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
