Nuts and Dry fruits Council (India)

Taking Makhana (Fox Nuts) Global - Building an Export-Ready Ecosystem from Bihar to the World

USDA DELEGATION VISIT TO KHARI BAOLI

On 29th July 2025, the Nuts and Dry Fruits Council (India) participated in the Makhana 360° Roundtable held at the ICAR–Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR–RCER) in Patna. The event was organised by the Forum of Enterprises for Equitable Development (FEED) and the Rabo Foundation, with ICAR–RCER, an institute functioning under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, serving as the venue host.

This multi-stakeholder convergence brought together farmers, FPOs, research institutions, policymakers and private sector players to co-develop a robust strategy for strengthening India’s makhana (fox nut) value chain, with Bihar as its epicentre.

Key Focus Areas:

– Climate-smart production and affordable mechanisation

– Financing innovation and agri-fintech access for marginal farmers

– Public–Private Partnership (PPP) models for value chain development

– Export promotion strategy and certification readiness

– Post-harvest management infrastructure

– Community-led branding and policy alignment

Representing the Council, Col. Nitin Sehgal, Vishisht Seva Medal (Veteran), Chief Executive Officer of NDFC(I), participated in the session on Makhana Export Promotion. He highlighted the need for a unified strategy that aligns farmer incentives, institutional support and global quality benchmarks, ensuring makhana’s emergence as a globally competitive and wellness-driven food category.

As India’s largest body for the dry fruits and nuts sector, NDFC(I) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policy dialogue, strengthening farmer-market linkages and enabling India’s leadership in sustainable, high-value agri exports.

The roundtable concluded with broad consensus across sectors to build a future-ready makhana ecosystem rooted in tradition, equity and scientific innovation.

Objectives and Goals

At NDFC, we believe in the strength of unity, fostering a collective voice that resonates with impact. Here’s why you should join us on this extraordinary journey:

One Body One Voice:

Amplifying your representation to the Honourable Government.

Community Growth and Cooperation:

Promoting collaboration within the nuts and dried fruits trade community to enhance the category size and foster cooperation among members.

International Collaboration:

Partnering with international promotional boards to channelize funds effectively for market expansion.

Digital Platform for Knowledge Exchange:

Creating a digital hub for knowledge dissemination, information exchange, and market intelligence, ensuring our members stay ahead of industry trends.

Research and Development Advocacy:

Promoting research and development in nuts and dried fruits to propagate healthy eating habits and boost consumption.

Annual NDFC Event:

Hosting an annual Buyer Seller Meet and Conference, fostering meaningful connections within the industry.

Cultural & Sports Bonding:

Creating a happy work environment through cultural and sports activities, making our industry a joyful place.

Educational Seminars and Training:

Organizing seminars and training programs with business leaders and coaches for holistic member growth.

Overseas Training Trips:

Facilitating overseas trips to various origins for training and education.

Discounted Event Spaces:

Securing discounted common spaces for members at domestic events and fairs like Aahar, Sial, Annapurna, and more.

Global Network Access:

Becoming members of world organizations like INC, gaining international exposure and opportunities.

Group Deals for International Trade Shows:

Negotiating better deals as a unified group for international trade shows and buyer-hosted programs.

Women Empowerment:

Encouraging and promoting women as entrepreneurs and professionals within the nuts and dried fruits trade.

Legal & Technical Guidance:

Providing discounted legal and technical advisory services, ensuring our members navigate challenges effectively.

Government Representation:

Representing, working, and coordinating with government bodies like Legal Metrology and FSSAI on standards and compliances.

Networking Opportunities:

Facilitating valuable networking opportunities to build relationships with industry peers and potential clients.

Collective Bargaining Power:

Leveraging the power of collective bargaining to secure exclusive pricing on everyday products and services, saving on business expenses.

Join NDFC and be part of a thriving community that works together, grows together, and succeeds together.