'I’m hooked on..': Zerodha's co-founder Nikhil Kamath hints at billion-dollar opportunity, THIS is India’s next..

Makhana, also called fox nut, is gaining worldwide recognition as a superfood with immense potential. Traditionally rooted in Indian culture, especially in Bihar, which produces 90% of the global supply, Makhana is transforming from a local snack to a booming industry. Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath highlighted its growing appeal, stating on X, “Maybe room here to build a huge brand, an Indian brand that sells to the world. Personally, I’m hooked on Makhana.”

Bihar’s flood-prone regions, once considered a challenge, have proven ideal for cultivating Makhana, a crop that thrives naturally in water bodies. Farmers have found it to be three times more profitable than rice. Innovations like the ‘Sabour Makhana-1’ variety have further revolutionized the industry by doubling yields and improving the edible seed ratio from 40% to 60%. This has created a vital source of income for thousands of farmers.

Packed with carbohydrates, protein, and essential minerals like phosphorus and calcium, Makhana is low in fat and calories, making it popular among health-conscious consumers. It is known to support heart health, aid in diabetes management, and assist with weight control. This surge in global demand has driven prices as high as Rs 13,000 per kilogram in international markets.

The industry has grown significantly, with production tripling over the past decade. However, challenges remain. Harvesting is labor-intensive, and strict export standards mean only 2% of seeds meet global quality benchmarks. Despite these hurdles, government subsidies and technological advancements are helping farmers and businesses overcome risks and scale up production.

Several startups are leveraging this momentum. Companies like Mr. Makhana generate Rs 50-60 lakh monthly, Farmley recently raised $6.7 million in funding, and Shakti Sudha Makhana aims to grow from Rs 50 crore to Rs 1000 crore by 2024. These enterprises are redefining Makhana, promoting it as a premium global product rather than just a snack.

From its humble origins in Bihar to international shelves, Makhana is on a journey to become a symbol of Indian innovation and sustainability.