PM Modi claims that millet can aid in addressing issues related to food security.

The United Nations designated 2023 as the “International Year of Millets” as a result of India’s proposal and efforts, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.

After officially opening the conference, he gave a speech at the “World Millets (Shri Anna) Conference” in New Delhi. In conjunction with the celebration of the International Year of Millets (IYMI)-2023, PM Modi also introduced a bespoke postal stamp and a Rs. 75 coin.

According to him, India is constantly attempting to make the worldwide movement for millets, or “Shri Anna,” happen.

“Now, millets comprise only 5–6% of the country’s food supply. I implore scientists and agricultural specialists in India to move quickly to enhance the proportion. He added that we will need to set realistic goals for it, noting that millets may be cultivated well in inclement weather without pesticides or fertilisers.

The Prime Minister emphasised that millets can be crucial in addressing issues with food security and can also improve the lives of the country’s 2.5 crore small and marginal farmers.

Sorghum (Jowar), Pearl Millet (Bajra), Finger Millet (Ragi), Tiny Millet (Kutki), Foxtail Millet (Kakun), Proso Millet (Cheena), Barnyard Millet (Sawa), Kodo Millet (Kodon), and other small-seeded grasses are all classified as millets and are frequently called Nutri-cereals or dryland cereals.

India produces more than 170,000 tonnes of millet annually, accounting for 80% of Asia’s total production and 20% of global production. The yield of millet in India is higher than the global average, which is 1,229 kg/ha.

(With inputs from PTI)

Related Posts

Exit mobile version