इतिहास

The ICAR–National Research Centre for Makhana was established at Darbhanga, Bihar, on 28 February 2002 in recognition of the historical, cultural and economic importance of makhana in the Mithila region. The Centre was created to undertake scientific research on makhana cultivation, improve productivity and develop better processing and value-addition technologies for farmers and entrepreneurs.

Since its establishment, NRC Makhana has played an important role in transforming traditional makhana cultivation into a more scientific and productive agricultural activity. The Centre developed improved production practices, field-based cultivation systems, integrated makhana–fish farming models and crop-management technologies that helped reduce water requirements, increase productivity and improve farmers’ income.

A major milestone was achieved in 2013 with the development of Swarna Vaidehi, the first improved makhana variety, with significantly higher production potential than traditional varieties. The Centre has also trained thousands of farmers, processors and entrepreneurs, contributing to the rapid expansion of makhana cultivation in Bihar and several other states.

In 2023, the Centre’s mandate was expanded to include research on lotus, water chestnut, fish and other aquatic crops with nutritional, medicinal, industrial and economic importance. Today, ICAR–NRC Makhana, Darbhanga, continues to serve as a leading institution for research, innovation, training and technology transfer in makhana and aquatic agriculture.