Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong advocacy for millets stems from several compelling reasons
The term “Millets” has gained significant popularity and recognition as a nutritious and sustainable food source. Millets, a group of small-seeded grains, have been an integral part of traditional Indian cuisine for centuries. These grains, often referred to as “mote anaaj,” encompass a variety of popular species such as Bajra, Jowar, Rajgira, Kuttu, Ragi, Sama, Samwat, Kodon, Kangni, and Chena. Dishes like Missi roti, Millet poha, Sama Khichdi, Kuttu roti, and Bajra daliya are all delicious examples of millet-based recipes.
However, millets have recently gained global attention, with the United Nations declaring them the “Food of the Year 2023”. These grains are celebrated not just for their delicious taste and culinary versatility but also for their exceptional nutritional value and health benefits, which have led to their increasing popularity worldwide.
The Rising Popularity of Millets
- Nutritional Powerhouses: Millets are hailed as nutritional powerhouses. They are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (A and B), and essential minerals like phosphorus, potassium, niacin, calcium, iron, and antioxidants. This nutrient profile makes millets exceptionally beneficial in reducing the risk of various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, strokes, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
- Gluten-Free: Millets are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. This property has further contributed to their global popularity as a healthy alternative to wheat and other gluten-containing grains.
- Sustainability: Millets are highly resilient crops that require less water and fewer chemical inputs compared to major cereal grains like wheat and rice. They can thrive in diverse agroclimatic conditions, making them an environmentally sustainable choice for food production. Their low water requirements are especially significant in the context of increasing water scarcity due to climate change.
- Diverse Culinary Applications: Millets are incredibly versatile and can be used in various culinary applications. They can be ground into flour for making bread, roti, and other baked goods, or used as whole grains in salads, pilafs, and porridges. Their adaptability in different cuisines makes them a valuable addition to global diets.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Promotion of Millets
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong advocacy for millets stems from several compelling reasons:
- Global Food Security: Modi recognizes the need for diversifying global food production. With a significant portion of the world relying on a few specific grains like wheat and rice, disruptions in their production, as seen during global crises or conflicts, pose substantial risks to food security. Millets offer a viable solution by diversifying food sources and reducing dependence on a handful of crops.
- India’s Role as a Global Leader: India is currently the largest producer of millets globally, contributing 44% of the total global production. Out of the 30 million tonnes of millets produced worldwide, India alone accounts for 13.2 million tonnes. By promoting millets as a globally accepted food, India and its farmers stand to benefit tremendously from increased demand, thereby boosting the country’s agricultural sector.
- Health and Sustainability: At a time when some propose synthetic meat or insect-based food options to address food security, Modi emphasizes providing nutritious and wholesome choices. Millets align with his vision for a healthier and more sustainable future. Promoting millets helps combat global health issues and offers an eco-friendly food option that can contribute positively to the environment.
- Turning Challenges into Opportunities: Modi’s approach to global challenges aligns with his philosophy of turning challenges into opportunities for India. By emphasizing millets as a sustainable and nutritious food option, he not only benefits Indian farmers but also offers the world a healthier food choice, aligning with the essence of ancient Indian philosophy that emphasizes the well-being and happiness of all individuals.
In the past, Modi introduced yoga to the world, and now he seeks to promote millets as a global food solution. Both initiatives reflect his commitment to addressing global challenges with innovative, sustainable, and holistic solutions.
Moving Forward
As the world faces increasing food insecurity and health concerns, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aggressive promotion of millets showcases his vision for a healthier and more sustainable future. Through this initiative, he strives to benefit farmers, promote Indian agricultural produce, and provide the world with a nutritious and eco-friendly food option. Millets, with their nutritional richness and environmental sustainability, offer a promising path toward a more resilient and healthier global food system.
