MILLETS : ECONOMY / GEOGRAPHY

MILLETS : ECONOMY / GEOGRAPHY

NEWS :  Millets are India’s solution to global challenges on nutrition, water scarcity and climate change: PM

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted millet farming as India’s solution to global issues of nutrition, water scarcity, and climate change.

 

Holistic Approach: 'One Earth, One Family, One Future'

  • Emphasizes sustainable agriculture and food systems.
  • Highlights challenges: nutrition, water shortage, climate change.
  • Presents millets ('Shri Anna') as a superfood needing minimal water.
  • India's readiness to share millet resources globally.

 

32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE)

  • Held in Delhi.
  • Theme: “Transformation towards sustainable agri-food systems.”
  • Showcases India's proactive agricultural advancements and policies.
  • 65 years ago, focused on India's food security; now, India provides global solutions.
  • Highlights India as a food surplus country and leading producer of various agricultural products.
  • New rice varieties developed requiring 25% less water.

 

Millets Overview

  • Collective term for small-seeded annual grasses.
  • Common Indian millets: Ragi, Jowar, Sama, Bajra, Variga.
  • Historical evidence from Indus civilization.
  • Grown in 131 countries, traditional food for around 60 crore people in Asia & Africa.
  • India: largest producer globally.
  • Top producing states: Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Accounts for 20% of global production, 80% of Asia’s production.
  • Major producers: India, Nigeria, China.

 

Importance of Millets: 'Nutri-Cereals'

  • Climate Resilient: Drought-resistant, require less water, grow in poor soil.
  • Nutrient-rich: High in fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals.
  • Gluten-free: Suitable for celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
  • Adaptable: Can be grown in various soils and climates.
  • Sustainable: Often grown using traditional, environmentally friendly farming methods.

 

Government Initiatives

  • National Millets Mission (NMM): Launched in 2007 to promote millet production and consumption.
  • MAHARISHI: Initiative for advancing millet and ancient grain research.
  • Price Support Scheme (PSS): Financial assistance for millet cultivation.
  • Value-Added Products: Encourages production of millet-based products.
  • Millets in PDS: Introduction in Public Distribution System for accessibility and affordability.
  • Promotion of Organic Farming: Boosting organic millet production and consumption.

 Source : https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/india-has-solution-to-global-challenges-on-nutrition-water-scarcity-and-climate-change-modi/article68480834.