Recognizing the importance of millets and generating both domestic and global demand, India is establishing itself as a global leader during this special year. Let us explore the significance of millets and how they are shaping a more secure, sustainable, and healthy future, turning into a mass movement.
Before the Green Revolution, millets accounted for nearly 40% of all crop grains but declined to about 20% in the following years. Crops like pulses, oilseeds, and maize encroached on previously cultivated land. While commercial crops are profitable and supported by policies such as subsidies, government procurement, and inclusion in the public distribution system, dietary habits shifted towards calorie-rich fine grains.
Millets are not new to India. Earlier, in rural areas with limited resources, small farmers produced grains based on their needs. Any surplus food grains were sold in the market after meeting family requirements. Over time, agriculture became more competitive, driven by profitability. Today, the focus is on nutrition, with in-depth research being conducted. Scholars are debating, lectures are being organized, and millets are being recognized as essential for good health.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the promotion of millets at both national and global levels, which has led to increased production and consumption. Millets such as jowar, bajra, and ragi are among the oldest known foods cultivated in India. Evidence suggests that millets were consumed during the Indus Valley Civilization.
India produces about 18 million metric tons of millets, accounting for nearly 20% of global production. Out of 200 countries worldwide, around 130 produce some form of nutritious grains, and India grows nine different types of millets. Food processing solutions also ensure nutritional security. Millets, for instance, are highly nutritious and resistant to challenging agro-climatic conditions. Known as “nutrient-rich and climate-resilient” crops, millets are far more nutritious and beneficial for health than the fine grains we consume today.
The cultivation of millets often involves small farmers working in non-irrigated regions, with minimal use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, making it a form of “organic farming.” Once considered coarse grains, millets are now being rebranded as superfoods. Efforts are being made to increase demand, ensuring better prices for farmers. Millets also cater to the rising demand for plant-based foods, contributing to a healthy diet and a safe environment.
India Leading in Millets
With over 18 million metric tons of production, India is on its way to becoming a global hub for millets. More than 80% of millets produced in Asia come from India. According to DGCIS data, India recorded an 8.02% increase in millet exports in FY 2021-22, exporting 159,332.16 metric tons compared to 147,501.08 metric tons in the previous year.
India registered a 27% growth in millet production in 2021-22. States like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana are major millet producers. Under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM), the NFSM-Nutri Grains program is being implemented across 212 districts in 14 states.
Over 500 startups are working in India’s millet value chain, supported by initiatives like the National Agricultural Development Scheme – Raftaar, which has aided 250 startups. In 2021-22, India exported $34.32 million worth of millet products, compared to $26.97 million in 2020-21.
Government Initiatives
To promote millet cultivation, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has been implementing the NFSM-Nutri Grains sub-mission in 14 states since 2018-19. This initiative provides incentives for farmers through crop production technologies, demonstrations, certified seeds, integrated nutrient and pest management, advanced agricultural tools, and water-saving equipment.
In addition, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has approved a Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Millet-Based Products (PLISMBP) with an outlay of ₹800 crore for 2022-27. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme is being implemented in 35 states and UTs.
Research and Development
Institutes like the Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Hyderabad, and CSIR-CFTRI are conducting research to overcome barriers in millet processing, value addition, and product development. These efforts, coupled with skill development and training programs, are enhancing the millet industry.
India’s efforts, from boosting millet production to increasing exports and promoting research, are transforming it into a global leader in the millet revolution.
About the Author
Prof. Sunil Goyal is a renowned social scientist, columnist, and professor in the Higher Education Department of the Madhya Pradesh Government. He also serves as the Honorary Chairman of the Swadeshi Research Institute, Indore Chapter.
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