Madhya Pradesh Farmers to Get ₹75,000 Subsidy for Makhana Cultivation: Government launches pilot project to boost makhana production across four districts

Key Highlights

• ₹75,000 subsidy per hectare for makhana cultivation in Madhya Pradesh.

• Pilot project launched in Narmadapuram, Balaghat, Chhindwara, and Seoni.

• Farmers to get seeds, training, and processing support.

• The climate and soil in Madhya Pradesh are ideal for makhana farming.

• 99 farmers have already applied online for the scheme.

Good news for farmers in Madhya Pradesh! The state government has announced a subsidy of ₹75,000 per hectare for farmers who start makhana cultivation. This move aims to encourage farmers to diversify crops and earn better income through the growing demand for makhana (fox nuts) in India and abroad.

Under the Makhana Cultivation Area Expansion Pilot Project, farmers will receive technical guidance, quality seeds, training, and processing facilities to support large-scale production.

Also Read: Rajasthan Government Announces ₹1,000 Crore Relief for 50 Lakh Farmers Affected by Heavy Rains

Pilot Project to Expand Makhana Cultivation

To promote makhana cultivation, the Madhya Pradesh government has launched a pilot project in four districts: Narmadapuram, Balaghat, Chhindwara, and Seoni.

Horticulture and Food Processing Minister Narayan Singh Kushwaha said that makhana farming will be developed in the state following the successful model of Bihar, which currently leads in makhana production. The minister also appealed to farmers from these districts to join the scheme and take advantage of government support.

Why Madhya Pradesh is Ideal for Makhana Farming

Experts say the climate and soil conditions of Madhya Pradesh are highly suitable for makhana cultivation. Makhana grows best in small ponds, pools, or reservoirs with light and marshy soil where water remains stagnant for a period.

The ideal temperature for makhana cultivation ranges between 20°C and 30°C. The crop requires full sunlight and consistent water levels for healthy growth.

This makes Madhya Pradesh’s environment perfect for cultivating makhana, offering farmers a new and profitable source of income.

Growing Demand in India and Abroad

Makhana has become a high-demand crop not just in India but also in Arab countries and Europe due to its health benefits and rising popularity as a superfood.

To support this growing demand, the Government of India has already established the Makhana Board to train farmers, provide technical assistance, and strengthen market linkages.

Minister Kushwaha added, “Like water chestnuts, makhana is cultivated in ponds and can bring good profits to farmers. After Bihar, Madhya Pradesh will also expand makhana farming on a large scale to boost farmers income.”

Online Application Process and Project Details

According to Arvind Dubey, Commissioner of Horticulture and Food Processing, the government aims to start makhana production on 150 hectares of land in the selected districts.

The project’s total estimated cost is ₹4.5 million, and farmers will receive a subsidy of ₹75,000 per hectare or 40% of the total cost, whichever is lower.

So far, 99 farmers have applied online to join the scheme. Along with financial support, farmers will also receive training, seeds, and processing assistance for value addition.

To apply online and learn more about the scheme, farmers can visit the official website of the Madhya Pradesh Horticulture and Food Processing Department: https://mpfsts.mp.gov.in/

Also Read: Lado Incentive Scheme 2025: Daughters to Receive ₹1.50 Lakh Assistance – Now Includes Private School Students Too

CMV360 Says

The Madhya Pradesh government’s ₹75,000 subsidy for makhana cultivation marks a new opportunity for farmers to increase their income and contribute to the state’s agricultural diversity. With suitable climate conditions, strong demand, and government support, makhana farming is set to become the next profitable crop for farmers in the state.