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17 March 2024 – New Delhi, India
Millets, a diverse group of small-seeded, resilient grains, have been a cornerstone of India’s agricultural heritage and dietary traditions for millennia. Praised for their adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions and minimal resource requirements, millets have emerged as a beacon of hope in addressing global hunger and malnutrition.
India, the world’s highest producer and consumer of millets, has spearheaded efforts to mainstream their production and consumption, earning recognition from both national and international platforms. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s declaration of 2023 as the Year of Millets resonated globally, echoing the United Nations’ acknowledgment of the grains’ nutritional and environmental significance.
Millets took center stage during the G20 Summit held in Delhi, where delegates were treated to a special menu featuring millet-based dishes. This symbolic gesture underscored India’s commitment to promoting the grains’ potential in combating food insecurity and fostering sustainable agriculture.
In alignment with these efforts, the Indian government has announced plans to triple millet procurement to 2 million tonnes in the current fiscal year, further bolstering support for millet farmers and the burgeoning millet industry.
Here are five compelling reasons to incorporate millets into your daily diet:
- Nutritional Significance: Millets are rich sources of protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals, making them a wholesome alternative for individuals with dietary restrictions or gluten sensitivity.
- Environmental Impact: With a reduced carbon footprint and minimal water and fertilizer requirements, millets promote environmentally sustainable agriculture, particularly in developing countries grappling with poverty and environmental degradation.
- Promotes Sustainability: Millets contribute to soil health and biodiversity, enhancing agricultural productivity while conserving natural resources. Their resilience to semi-arid conditions aids in water conservation and promotes food security.
- Climate Resilience: Millets thrive in adverse environmental conditions, including drought and high temperatures, offering stability to agricultural production amid changing climates.
- Traditional and Cultural Importance: Millets hold deep-rooted cultural significance, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and prosperity in various cultures. They form the backbone of traditional cuisines and rituals, enriching India’s cultural tapestry.
India’s concerted efforts to promote millets have spurred the emergence of over 80 new startups in the millet sector, reflecting the government’s commitment to harnessing their potential for improved nutrition, ecological balance, and economic growth.
As global recognition of the nutritional and environmental benefits of millets grows, India remains at the forefront of leveraging these grains to build a sustainable and resilient future.
