Discover India’s Rising Role in Millet Production and Export
India stands tall as a leading millet producer and exporter, with a government committed to boosting both production and consumption of these nutrient-packed grains. From 2015-16 to 2020-21, millet production surged from 14.15 to 17.96 million tonnes, marking a steady annual growth rate of 3%. In the most recent fiscal year, India exported millets worth a substantial US$ 26.97 million, with key destinations including Nepal, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Recognizing the nutritional significance of millets, the Indian government classified them as nutri-cereals in April 2018. Under initiatives like the Sub Mission on National Food Security Mission (NFSM)-Nutri Cereals, efforts are underway to raise awareness among farmers about millets like ragi, sorghum, and bajra through training and demonstrations.
Farmers are incentivized through state governments to adopt modern techniques and technologies for millet cultivation, including crop protection, seed distribution, and water-saving devices. Capacity building initiatives such as workshops and training sessions further empower farmers.
The government is also actively promoting millets through research and development, supporting startups and entrepreneurs in developing value-added products. Additionally, bio-fortified varieties and hybrids are being introduced to enhance cultivation and consumption.
Collaborative efforts between the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and research institutes aim to improve quality and processing standards, bolstering export potential. Plans for promotional activities across various international markets are underway, further amplifying millet’s global presence.
Moreover, strategic partnerships like the one between NITI Aayog and the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) underscore India’s commitment to mainstreaming millets and advancing global knowledge exchange. The focus extends to building resilient livelihoods for farmers and fostering climate-smart agriculture.
At the grassroots level, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare supports extension activities under various schemes, encouraging millet cultivation and diversification. With a concerted effort to address farmer concerns and enhance productivity, India is poised to leverage the UN’s declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets, steering the world towards a healthier, more sustainable future.
(Original source: PIB, February 24, 2022)
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