CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Recognizing the importance of millets and their role in providing nutritious food, India is moving toward global leadership in promoting indigenous and global demand for these grains in this special year. Let’s explore the significance of millets and how they are inspiring a mass movement for a secure, sustainable, and healthy future.

Keywords: Nutritious Food, Millets, Jowar, Bajra, Ragi, Coarse Grains

Significance of Millets

Before the Green Revolution, millets accounted for nearly 40% of total grain production, which later declined to 20%. The prioritization of commercial crops and policies reduced millet cultivation. However, changing dietary habits and the demand for nutrition have brought millets back into prominence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also called for the promotion of millets. The cultivation and consumption of millets such as Jowar, Bajra, and Ragi are increasing steadily. These grains are among the oldest food crops of human civilization and were even used during the Indus Valley Civilization.

India produces approximately 18 million metric tons of millets annually, contributing to 20% of global production. Millets are known as “nutrition-rich and climate-resilient” crops.

India’s Leadership

India produces over 80% of Asia’s millets. The key millet-producing states are Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

Under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM), programs are being implemented in 212 districts to promote nutrition grains (POSHAK).

Government Initiatives

NFSM-Nutri Grains: Incentives for farmers on new technologies and seeds.

PLI Scheme: ₹800 crore incentive scheme for millet-based products.

PMFME Scheme: Interest subsidy on loans up to ₹2 crore for millet processing units.

ICAR-IIMR: Promotion of research and development.

Conclusion

Millets not only provide nutrition but are also environmentally friendly. They empower small farmers toward self-reliance and promote health and agricultural sustainability.

Prof. Sunil Goyal

The author is a professor in the Higher Education Department, Government of Madhya Pradesh, and Honorary President of Swadeshi Research Institute.

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