Global Millets Conference to be inaugurated by PM Modi in New Delhi

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The Global Millets Conference will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 19, 2023 in New Delhi

An Overview of the News 

• Agriculture ministers from six countries, international scientists, nutritionists, health experts, start-up leaders and other stakeholders from over 100 countries will participate in the conference.

• The Prime Minister will unveil a customised postage stamp and currency coin on the International Year of Millets (IYM) - 2023 during the event.

• The two-day conference will have sessions on a wide range of issues related to millets, including publicity and awareness, value chain development, health and nutrition, market linkages and research and development.

• An exhibition-cum-buyer-seller meet will also be organised with a focus on millets with the participation of over 50 domestic and international buyers, importers, exporters and processors.

• The exhibition will showcase millet and millet-based ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat products, by millet-based startups and exporters, and live cooking sessions by various international and national chefs.

• Based on India's proposal, the year 2023 was declared by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Millet Year.

• Engaged all Ministries and Departments of the Central Government, States and Union Territories, farmers, start-ups, exporters, retail businesses and other stakeholders to promote and spread awareness about the benefits of millets to the farmer, consumer and the climate.

About Millet

• India is the largest producer of millets in the world and the second largest exporter of these grains.

• Millets have been an integral part of India's food culture for centuries, and several types of millets are grown in the country, including jowar, ragi, bajra, kuttu, ramdana, kangni, kutki, kodo, china, and sama.

• Millets are known for their many health benefits, including being a good source of protein, fibre and micronutrients.

• Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttarakhand being the top 10 states in terms of millet production. 

• Together, these 10 states account for almost 98% of millet production in India during the 2020-21 period.