Why Millets Matter for India and the environment

topic:	Food Security
located:	India
editor:	Bindu Gopal Rao

Millets have been a part of the Indian diet for centuries but took a backseat as rice and wheat cultivation gained prominence over time. The grains are now regaining popularity, with the Indian state of Karnataka leading the way in advocacy.

This year, the focus has shifted firmly to these grains, referred to as Shree Anna, with the Government of India pushing for greater consumption and production of the grain. Taking motivation from India, the UN has declared 2023 the International Year of Millets.

The recently concluded G20 Summit had a millet-inspired twist in the menu served to its international delegates.

So, what is driving this concerted effort towards millets? Aside from its health benefits, millets use less water. They are pest-resistant, too, making them both sustainable and organic by nature, a winning proposition for food security and fulfilling nutritional goals.

As malnutrition and obesity remain key health issues in India, millets seem to be the apparent answer to rectify both. Millets are seeing a wide range of applications regarding food and are becoming more mainstream as they appear on restaurant menus.

Several kinds of millet are grown in India, including Sorghum Millet (Jowar), Pearl Millet (Bajra), Finger Millet (Ragi), Proso Millet (Chena / Barri) and Buckwheat Millet (Kuttu). Each of these millets has its range of health benefits, ranging from being protein-rich, high in fibre, rich in nutrients, gluten-free, low glycaemic index and antioxidant properties.

As native crops, they are ideal for farmers affected by climate change. Because they grow on arid terrain and are resilient crops, they also help reduce the dependence on imported cereals and are increasingly adopted worldwide.

India is the millet capital of the world, producing 40 per cent of the world’s production of these grains, which has the potential to bolster exports to the tune of $2 billion. A recent report indicates India may push the case for millets at COP28.

Perhaps this will be the push needed to refocus attention on these unassuming grains.

Image by Lucia Tognacci.

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