From Ponds to Prosperity: Makhana Cultivation and Women's Economic Empowerment in Dhamtari District, Chhattisgarh

Makhana (Euryale ferox Salisb.), commonly known as fox nut or gorgon nut, is an aquatic crop traditionally associated with eastern India but increasingly attracting attention as a high-value agricultural and food-processing commodity. Chhattisgarh possesses considerable potential for diversification into aquatic and water-based agricultural enterprises because of its ponds, irrigation infrastructure and suitable agro-climatic conditions. Dhamtari district, traditionally recognised for its rice-based agricultural economy, is witnessing the emergence of makhana cultivation as an alternative livelihood activity. Particularly significant is the involvement of women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the cultivation and promotion of the crop. Recent reports indicate that makhana cultivation has been initiated in Dhamtari through women’s groups, with cultivation undertaken in ponds and additional areas being prepared for expansion. The present paper examines this emerging agricultural activity from the perspective of women’s livelihood diversification, economic participation, value addition and rural entrepreneurship. Using a descriptive case-study approach based primarily on secondary sources, the study analyses the opportunities and constraints associated with women-led makhana cultivation in Dhamtari. The paper argues that makhana can potentially develop beyond a cultivation activity into an integrated women-led enterprise involving production, processing, packaging and marketing. However, sustained institutional support, technical training, mechanisation, market linkages and reliable production data are essential for transforming this emerging initiative into a durable rural livelihood model.