Report-state: Bihar

Makhana, or Fox Nut, though cultivated by a limited number of farmers in Bihar, has gained national and global recognition for its nutritional value and health benefits. It is increasingly being seen as a superfood, with growing demand and rising prices. However, the changing climate—especially long spells of hot and dry weather – has started to pose serious challenges for traditional and Chaur farmers engaged in its cultivation.

To understand these challenges better, Asar and Regenerative Bihar have collaborated on a study involving makhana producers, subject experts, and other key stakeholders across the state. The report documents their experiences, identifies the major issues they face, and presents recommendations to make makhana cultivation more climate-resilient and economically viable

This report documents East Champaran’s efforts to tackle climate vulnerability through the Bihar government’s Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission. Focused on water security, afforestation, clean energy, and climate-resilient agriculture, the district implemented large-scale projects like pond restoration, check dam construction, and drip irrigation. Community institutions like Jeevika (SHGs) played a central role, especially in social forestry and water management. Initiatives such as the “Guardians of Champaran” for heritage tree conservation and integrated farming models further strengthened resilience. The report showcases East Champaran as a model for climate adaptation through convergence, community participation, and innovative governance.

Bihar’s Gaya district, is not only a site of immense cultural and spiritual significance—known as the place where Buddha attained enlightenment—but also a region increasingly vulnerable to climate impacts. Gaya faces severe challenges such as rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and frequent droughts, which threaten its agriculture, water resources, and overall livelihood security. These vulnerabilities make Gaya a critical area for focused efforts on climate resilience and sustainable development. The Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission (JJH Mission) aims to address these issues through integrated water management and ecological restoration through active community involvement. This mission is essential not only for enhancing water availability but also for promoting climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods in Gaya among other things. Understanding the best practices under this mission is vital for informing future climate action strategies in Bihar and similar regions.