New Delhi, Sept. 15 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed on Monday with a garland of Makhana, or fox nuts-the popped seeds of the prickly waterlily plant, which are popular as a snack worldwide - during a public rally in Purnea district of poll-bond Bihar

Bihar accounts for about 90 per cent of the country's total Makhana production in several districts, including Purnea. Their favourable climatic conditions and fertile soil contribute to the superior quality of Makhana.

Modi also launched the National Makhana Board on the occasion. The establishment of the Makhana Board in Bihar, announced in the Union Budget this year, will give a major boost to Makhana production in the State and the country and strengthen Bihar's presence on...