Promoting Millet Cultivation and Consumption: A Comprehensive Guide
The cultivation and consumption of millets are gaining global attention due to their nutritional benefits and sustainability. Various initiatives by governments and organizations play a crucial role in this promotion. This article explores the actions taken by the Government of India, state governments, and international bodies to enhance millet production, consumption, and export.
Government of India's Initiative
The Government of India is leading the effort to celebrate the International Year of Millets (IYM-2023). The action plan under this initiative focuses on several strategic areas to promote millets:
Enhancing Production and Productivity: Support for farmers to adopt modern techniques, crop production and protection technologies, and improved farm implements. Conducting Awareness Campaigns: Farmers training, awareness camps, village-level camps, and other promotional activities to educate the public on the benefits of millets. Creating Value Chains: Strengthening overall value chains and branding to increase the market acceptance of millets. Awareness for Health Benefits: Highlighting the health benefits of millets to influence consumer choices.State Governments' Initiatives
Several Indian states have taken proactive steps to increase millet production and consumption:
Haryana: A year-long promotional plan has been developed, including activities like farmers training, awareness camps, and school programs. Odisha, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan: These states have implemented State Millet Missions to boost production and consumption. For example, the Government of Tamil Nadu has signed an MOU with millet producers and processing unit entrepreneurs.National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DAFW) under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) is implementing several initiatives to support millet production:
Sub-Mission on Nutri-Cereals Millets: Since 2018-19, this sub-mission has been operational in 212 Districts of 14 States. Incentives to Farmers: The states/UTs provide incentives for crop production, protection technologies, cropping system demonstrations, production, distribution of certified seeds, and Integrated Nutrient and Pest Management techniques. Capacity Building: Farmers receive training during the cropping season and participate in events and workshops. Seed mini kits are distributed, and publicity through print and electronic media is conducted. Centers of Excellence (CoE) and Seed Hubs: Support for the establishment of centers for millet production and processing.Export Opportunities
Exploring international markets for millet export is essential. The Government is supporting various initiatives, including:
Quality Audits: Ensuring product quality through audits for acceptance. Export Initiatives: Partnering with private sector entities to explore export options.Role of All India Millet Producers Association (AIMPA)
AIMPA is playing a significant role in promoting millet production and processing through:
Setting up Labs: Conducting pre-export tests on millet products to ensure quality. Organizing Road Shows: Raising awareness about the benefits and uses of millets. Courses in Millet Production and Processing Management: AIMPA plans to conduct 1-year and 2-year courses for professionals and farmers.Conclusion
The promotion of millet cultivation and consumption is a collaborative effort involving governments, organizations, and private entities. By implementing a multi-stakeholder approach and leveraging various strategies, we can enhance the production, consumption, and export of millets, ensuring their health benefits reach a wider audience.