Raimati Ghiuria, a tribal farmer from the Koraput district of Odisha, has achieved an extraordinary feat. Her contribution to the preservation of indigenous millet varieties and intensive training programs for women have rekindled the lost interest in the cultivation of this nutritious grain. Ghiuria’s commitment to seed conservation earned her an invitation to the prestigious G20 Summit held to celebrate the ‘International Year of Millets’. A dedicated custodian of biodiversity, Ghiuria has been affectionately crowned as the ‘Queen of Millet’ at the international conference.
The Outstanding Contribution of Raimati Ghiuria
With 72 traditional paddy and 30 unique millet varieties preserved under her watchful supervision, Ghiuria has played a pivotal role in native seed conservation. Among the diverse millet varieties she has protected and nurtured are Kundra bati mandia, jasra, juana, and jamkoli. It’s her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication that have seen Ghiuria recognized globally as a pioneer in her field.
Empowering Women through Agricultural Training
Ghiuria’s work extends beyond mere preservation; she has used her experience and knowledge to empower hundreds of women. Through her training initiatives, she has taught these women the art of cultivating rare millets. This works as a two-pronged strategy – preserving biodiversity and uplifting women by making them self-sufficient. The training not only equips them with skills in farming but also helps in ensuring food security for their families.
Millets: The Power-Packed Superfood
Millets are grains that have been cultivated for thousands of years. Originating from West Africa and Northern China, millets are a significant food source across Asia and Africa. These small-seeded crops thrive where other cereals fail to survive, making them indispensable in arid and semi-arid regions.
Millets hold their own against the challenges faced by farmers. They are drought-resistant, requiring little water to grow – a beneficial trait in areas prone to water scarcity. Furthermore, millets can thrive in poor soil conditions, demonstrating their adaptability and resilience.
The Nutritional Benefits of Millets
Millets offer a treasure trove of nutrients essential for maintaining good health. They serve as an excellent source of fiber, key in regulating digestion and moderating blood sugar levels. Moreover, these super grains are rich in protein, vital for body repair and growth.
Millets also provide an array of vitamins and minerals. These include iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium which play crucial roles in promoting bone health, heart health, and maintaining energy levels.
Advantages for Gluten-Intolerant Individuals
In addition to their nutritional value, millets are naturally gluten-free, making them an ideal food choice for individuals with celiac disease or those who have gluten intolerance. The absence of gluten makes millets an easy-to-digest grain, thus preventing any discomfort or adverse reactions that could occur from gluten consumption.
Throughout this article, the contribution of Raimi Ghiuria towards preserving traditional seeds, training women in farming, and the numerous benefits associated with millets have been highlighted. Indeed, her endeavors and the potential of millets are worth acknowledging and respecting.
