Understanding India?s Big Millets Push

Understanding India’s Big Millets Push

News: Two years ago, the UN General Assembly adopted India’s resolution to declare 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

Background:
 The Union Budget has accorded high priority to millets grains such as jowar, bajra, ragi citing their health benefits. “We are the largest producer and second largest exporter of ‘Sree Anna’ (millets) in the world.
 The Indian Institute of Millet Research-Hyderabad will be supported as the Centre of Excellence for sharing best practices, research and technologies at the international level.”

What steps are taken by government recently to promote millets?
Steps Taken
Central Ministries asked to promote it as 'NutriCereals'
'Millets experience' for G20 Delegates
FSSAI asked to formulate guidelines to include millets in food menu of schools, government Canteens.
AIIMS to set up Millets canteen
MOFPI to organise Millet fairs
Increased procurement under PDS

What are the benefits of Millets?
 Eco-friendly and healthier than other traditionally consumed grains.
 Require less water compared to Rice and wheat and can be grown in rain-fed areas without irrigation.
 Increased tolerance to Drought and extreme weather events.
 Millets can be a healthier option to keep lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes at bay. Shifting to Millets will help change the image of country which is perceived to be Diabetes capital of world.
 Millets have a much lower glycaemic index (a measure of how much blood sugar levels spike after consuming a food item) than processed rice or wheat. A low glycaemic diet can help in controlling weight and blood sugar levels, consequently reducing the risk of heart disease or even cancers.
 Millets are also high in fibre content that is known to improve gut microbiota. They result in satiety faster and keeps people fuller for longer, thereby reducing the amount of food consumed.
 Rich in micronutrients such as zinc and iron, which can help reduce country’s burden of Anemia.

What are possible concerns around Millets?
 Although millets have a low glycaemic index, they are not a low-calorie option.
 The millets should not be polished like rice or else any nutritional gains made will be lost.