Agri Books

International Year of Millets 2023: Promoting Sustainable and Nutritious Crop

Introduction

The word ‘Millet’ is derived from the French word “mille” which means thousand. Millets are a group of small-grained, annual, warm-weather cereals belonging to the grass family. They are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Millets are also gluten-free and can be a good choice for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Millets are grown in a variety of locations around the world, including Africa, Asia, and South America. They are a basic diet for many people, particularly those living in rural areas. India is the world’s biggest producer of millets.

The United Nations General Assembly declared 2023 to be the International Year of Millets (IYOM 2023). The year is an opportunity to enhance knowledge of millets’ nutritional and health benefits, as well as their aptitude for cultivation in severe and changing climatic conditions. IYOM 2023 will also promote millets’ sustainable production while emphasizing their potential to generate new sustainable market options for producers and consumers.

Significance of Millets

Nutritional value and health benefits

Millets are high-nutritional-value grains with numerous health benefits. Because they are high in fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals, they are a good dietary choice. Millets are gluten-free, making them acceptable for people who are gluten-intolerant or have celiac disease. They also have a low glycemic index, which means they digest slowly, which results in better blood sugar control.

Climate resilience and sustainability

Millets are well known for their capacity to tolerate to different adverse agro-climatic conditions, including dry and semi-arid locations. In comparison to other cereals crops, they require less water and are more resistant to pests and diseases. We can improve agricultural sustainability and resilience in the face of climate change by encouraging the production of millets.

Biodiversity and Agriculture Sustainability

Millets are valuable for biodiversity and sustainable agriculture. They diversify crops, reducing monoculture risks and promoting ecosystem health. These low-input grains require minimal water, pesticides, and fertilizers, conserving resources and minimizing environmental impacts. Millets exemplify sustainable farming practices, fostering resilience while protecting the environment.

Food Security

Millets are traditionally cultivated as a staple food source for many countries, especially in Africa and Asia. Traditionally Millions of people are depend on millets for energy, particularly in areas where other cereal crops such as wheat and rice are not easily to cultivate.

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