Constraints and Drudgery in Makhana Cultivation

Makhana is an aquatic crop with immense export potential and it is an important source of income for poor fishermen. Out of total makhana produced in India, more than 80% makhana is produced in Bihar alone. Although it is a high value crop but farmers associated with makhana are still very poor. The study is based on information obtained from 400 farmers of two major makhana growing districts, namely, Madhubani and Katihar of Bihar; to identify the constraints associated with makhana cultivation under different eco-systems. Since makhana cultivation is labour intensive, attempts were also made to know the drudgery involved in different operations of makhana cultivation. Based on focus group discussions with the different stakeholders, seven main constraints were identified for preferential ranking by the makhana growers. Lack of ownership of the pond/land was the major constraint followed by lack of scientific knowledge of cultivation and highly skilled operations involved in makhana cultivation in both the district. Harvesting was found to be the most difficult operation in makhana cultivation as reported by farmers of Katihar and Madhubani