From Royal Tables to International Plates: How Magahi Paan Became a Profitable Crop for Farmers

Patna, Bihar: Magahi Paan, a prized agricultural product from Bihar, has become a symbol of the state’s rich cultural and culinary heritage, finding its place not just in India but also on international tables in countries like Malaysia and Singapore. Renowned for its unique aroma and sharp, flavorful taste, Magahi Paan has received a GI (Geographical Indication) tag, reflecting its special identity and quality.

Once favored in royal courts and nawabs’ gatherings, Magahi Paan is now a thriving business, providing livelihoods to thousands of families in Bihar, particularly in Aurangabad district.

Why Is It Called Magahi Paan?

The name originates from the Magadh region of southern Bihar, where the crop is primarily cultivated. Magahi Paan is grown across approximately 27 districts in Bihar, with Aurangabad, Gaya, Nalanda, Madhubani, Vaishali, Munger, Bhagalpur, Araria, Purnia, and Jamui being key centers. In Aurangabad, the blocks of Dev, Madanpur, and Rafiqanj have emerged as major hubs for production.

Profitable and Cash-Rich Crop

For farmers in Aurangabad, Magahi Paan cultivation is a generational occupation. In Khemchand Bigha-Ketaki village, around 80 families rely entirely on this crop. Farmers from the Chaurasia community explain that for over 60 years, paan cultivation has been the backbone of their livelihood.

“Paan is a cash crop. Even small plots can yield significant profits. Its medicinal properties and consistent market demand make it highly lucrative. It can also be grown indoors, on terraces, or in limited space,” says Virendra Chaurasia, a third-generation paan farmer.

Dinanath Kumar Chaurasia adds, “Paan leaves prepared using special techniques are delicate, breaking like glass and melting easily in the mouth. Its unique flavor has created demand not only across India but also in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Malaysia, and Singapore. The medicinal industry also seeks it.”

Government Support Boosts Cultivation

According to District Agriculture Officer Sandeep Raj, the state government’s Paan Vikas Yojana provides training in modern cultivation methods along with subsidies for farmers. Depending on the cultivation area, farmers can receive up to 50% financial assistance. For plots measuring 100 sq. meters, the grant is ₹11,750, while for 300 sq. meters, it is ₹35,250.

Bihar’s government is promoting traditional Magahi and Desi Paan cultivation to increase farmers’ income and strengthen the rural economy. This year, a target of 5,000 sq. meters was set for paan cultivation, of which 4,000 sq. meters have already been achieved.

With rising domestic and international demand, Magahi Paan has transformed from a cultural delicacy into a profitable and sustainable venture for Bihar’s farmers, securing both economic and global recognition.