BHAGALPUR, Sept. 12 -- Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, has rolled out a renewed action plan to transform makhana into a global superfood brand. The roadmap was discussed at a high-level review meeting of the Makhana Development Scheme (MDS) chaired by Anil Kumar Singh on Wednesday, where scientists, institutional leaders, and officials deliberated on strategies to boost farmer income, improve seed quality, and expand international markets. Highlighting the crop's significance, Singh, Director, Research at BAU Sabour and CEO, MDS, said, "Makhana is not just a crop of Mithila; it is India's pride." Describing it as a climate-resilient superfood with immense nutritional and economic value, he stressed that makhana can uplift farmer livelihoods while strengthening India's export basket. "BAU Sabour is committed to bringing technology to farmers' fields through MDS," he added. Key discussions focused on pilot project reviews, varietal improvement, pest management, and the promotion of organic makhana under the "Know Your Crop (KYC)" initiative. The committee stressed the importance of fortnightly Makhana Choupal sessions to equip farmers with scientific know-how. Plans were also finalised for training modules, region-specific agronomic packages, and wider outreach through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). A proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BAU Sabour and ITC Limited is under consideration to scale up cultivation and ensure better market access. The collaboration is expected to strengthen the makhana value chain from "pond to plate." Applauding the initiative, BAU Sabour Vice-Chancellor Dr. D.R. Singh said, "BAU Sabour has emerged as the national hub of makhana research and development. Through the Makhana Development Scheme, we are not only scaling up production but also building a global identity for Mithila Makhana. The synergy of science, innovation, and farmer participation will script a new chapter in India's agri-economy, ensuring sustainable growth and long-term benefits for farming communities nationwide." Those present at the meeting included Dr. Shailbala Dey, Deputy Director Research; Prof. (Dr.) Dilip Kumar Mahto, Associate Dean-cum-Principal, BPSAC Purnea & Nodal, MDS; Dr. Anil Kumar, Principal Investigator, MDS; Dr. Tapan Gorai, Co-PI; Dr. Abhinav Kumar; Dr. Bal Krishna; and Dr. Prity Sundaram, among other committee members and stakeholders....