In Budget 2025, Zerodha's Nikhil Kamath's favourite superfood Makhana gets a big boost

Nikhil Kamath’s predictions came true. In a transformative step aimed at reshaping Bihar’s thriving Makhana sector, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled plans to establish a specialized Makhana Board in the Union Budget. To ensure effective implementation, institutional mechanisms will be developed, encouraging active participation from farmer-producer organizations (FPOs) and cooperatives.

The Makhana Board will also play a crucial role in providing handholding support and specialized training to makhana farmers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve productivity and profitability. This initiative is expected to not only uplift the livelihoods of makhana cultivators in Bihar but also position the state as a key player in the national and global makhana market.

For the unversed, recently Zerodha’s co-founder Nikhil Kamath predicted that the makhana (also known as foxnut) will be India’s biggest global export. “Maybe room here to build a really large brand, an Indian brand that sells to the world. Personally, I’m hooked on Makhana,” he wrote on X.

Why Is Makhana Considered A Super Food?

Fox nuts, also known as makhanas, serve as a delightful and nutritious snack when properly roasted. These crispy treats can be enhanced with various seasonings to elevate their taste. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and crushed black pepper, or experiment with powdered mint, oregano, and a dash of chili flakes for a zesty twist.

For individuals on a weight management regimen, this snack is an excellent option. Due to their low sodium content, fox nuts are particularly beneficial for those managing hypertension, offering a safe and healthy alternative to processed snacks.

Additionally, these wholesome bites are widely recognized for their rich calcium content, making them an ideal choice for promoting strong bones and teeth. Beyond their nutritional advantages, they provide prolonged satiety, helping curb unnecessary cravings while delivering an exquisite flavor experience.


Furthermore, its positive impact on cardiovascular health, diabetes regulation, and weight management has significantly fueled its increasing demand worldwide. As a result, Makhana has witnessed a substantial rise in market value, with international prices soaring as high as Rs 13,000 per kilogram.