PURNEA, Dec. 22 -- With the National Makhana Board (NMB) already established in Bihar-though its location is yet to be finalised-the Centre has entrusted Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, Bhagalpur, with the task of expanding the cultivation of 'Mithila Makhana' to other states.

BAU has identified five states-Assam, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha-for the first phase, where farmers and experts will be trained in cultivation, harvesting and processing techniques.

"In the first phase, cultivation will be initiated in these five states. High-quality seeds will be supplied and farmers will be trained not only in cultivation but also in harvesting and processing," BAU vice-chancellor Prof D R Singh said. He ...