Manipur to boost local makhana cultivation with new central scheme

Imphal: K. Debadutta Sharma, Director of the Department of Horticulture & Soil Conservation (DH & SC), Government of Manipur, announced that a Central Scheme on Makhana (fox nut), locally known as Thangjing and scientifically named Euryale ferox, is soon to be implemented in the state.

In an official statement, the Director stated that the scheme will be implemented by the DH & SC and invited interested farmers to participate in the programme.

He pointed out that there has been limited research and development on Thangjing in the state and encouraged scientists to take advantage of this upcoming scheme to initiate research in this area.

The Director added that a specific central scheme is about to be launched in Manipur to boost local Thangjing (makhana) cultivation, and noted that a state-level “Makhana Vikas Yojana” is already implemented in certain districts of Bihar.

Thangjing (fox nut) is a seasonal edible product of an aquatic plant available in summer.

Though the outer layer is quite thorny, the inner portion, once peeled, is visually appealing and packed with starchy seeds.

It is usually used in spicy preparations such as ametpa and eromba, which are delicacies in Manipuri cuisine. Its edible seeds are a popular food source in Manipur and are commonly used in various dishes.

The plant itself is a rooted aquatic herb that grows in ponds and other freshwater bodies. Its seeds are the most consumed part, though the leaves and fruit are also edible.

Additionally, the primary central initiative supporting makhana cultivation is the National Makhana Board, established to promote and formalize the makhana industry by improving production, processing, value addition, and exports.

Other schemes supporting makhana cultivation and processing include the PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana, which provide financial and technical support to food processing enterprises, including those in the makhana sector.