Climate crisis a major threat for makhana farmers: Report

Patna: Cooperative minister Prem Kumar on Tuesday released a report titled ‘Climate change and makhana farmers of Bihar', shedding light on the severe challenges faced by makhana cultivators amid the escalating climate crisis.Speaking at the event, the minister said, "Makhana has now reached not just across India but around the world. In the makhana hubs of Madhubani and Darbhanga, the govt has formed 21 new cooperative societies. We are committed to ensuring that makhana cultivation and its farmers benefit. In districts like Kishanganj, Purnia, Saharsa, Katihar, Madhepura and Supaul, women have emerged as leaders of makhana companies."The report was jointly prepared by Munna Jha of Asar Social Impact Advisors and Ishtiyaq Ahmad of Regenerative Bihar. It noted that despite growing international demand for makhana, traditional farmers remain vulnerable due to climate change, inconsistent govt policies and limited access to markets.According to the report, makhana cultivation, reliant on ponds, wetlands and lakes in north Bihar, is highly water-dependent. Over the past decade, rainfall patterns have become increasingly erratic. "In 2024 alone, 40 rivers across Bihar dried up by March. With rising temperatures and uneven rainfall, a severe water shortage was observed in April-May across lowland wetlands," the report said.Mangal Anand Jha of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Madhubani, is quoted in the report as saying, "Makhana requires an ideal temperature of 20-35°C, humidity levels of 50-90%, and 1,000-2,500mm of annual rainfall. However, temperatures are now exceeding 40°C, humidity has dropped to 40-45% and rainfall has shrunk to an average of just 800 mm, affecting productivity."Ishtiyaq Ahmad, co-author of the report, added, "Makhana is a water-based crop, but our ponds have become polluted. Changing weather patterns and the lack of fresh water in rivers and ponds are shrinking the cultivation."Munna Jha, head of Climate Action for Bihar-Jharkhand at Asar Social Impact Advisors, clarified, "This is not a scientific study, but a social report created from direct engagement with farmers and experts. It draws from conversations with farmer groups in Madhubani, Darbhanga, Saharsa and Supaul districts. It documents their experiences, challenges and practical solutions."