In recent news, the state of Odisha has planned to introduce locally harvested millets into schemes such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and Public Distribution System (PDS). This new initiative falls under the umbrella of the Odisha Millet Mission, which was established in 2017. The mission is primarily aimed at promoting local millet production among farmers, as well as enhancing consumption in local households to improve dietary diversity and nutritional outcomes. In addition, it seeks to enhance decentralized infrastructure for processing and re-popularizing millets.
Understanding Millets
Millets are small-seeded annual grasses that are primarily grown as grain crops on marginal lands in dry areas, in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions. In India, commonly harvested varieties include Ragi (Finger millet), Jowar (Sorghum), Sama (Little millet), Bajra (Pearl millet), and Variga (Proso millet).
Ambition of the Initiative
Odisha’s introduction of millets into the ICDS and PDS has several overarching aims. It strives to integrate locally grown millets into public food systems, foster climate resilience among farmers, promote agroecological farming practices that leverage chemical-free agriculture practices, and advocate for locally sustained food systems. Ultimately, it seeks to ensure districts are self-sufficient in terms of produce, procurement, and distribution.
Addressing Malnutrition in Odisha
The implementation of this initiative is particularly pertinent in light of Odisha’s malnutrition challenge. According to the National Family Health Survey, 2015-16, nearly 45% of children in the state are stunted, and almost 41% of women have a below-normal body mass index.
Features of the Initiative
To roll out this initiative, districts will draw upon their District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds. The DMF, a non-profit entity, operates in those districts affected by mining work and aims to benefit those individuals and areas impacted by mining-related operations. At the end of each sowing and harvest season, payments will be made into farmers’ accounts based on reports submitted by local implementation agencies, which will then be examined by the district administration. Furthermore, every district will deliver 1.5 kilogrammes of ragi per person through the PDS scheme.
Complementing Agricultural Practices
Odisha’s millet initiative is largely centered around boosting local food diversity and ensuring that farmers have adequate access to food. Notably, it differs from approaches that are primarily driven by consumer and urban markets. Farmers who adopt bio-inputs and adhere to the system of millets intensification will receive incentives for three years. Organic methods for pest and weed management will also be rewarded with incentives by the state government.
The Future of Millets in Odisha
Odisha’s approach is unique in its combined emphasis on non-chemical techniques, nutrition, and food security. Many similar interventions tend to prioritize creating profitable markets at the expense of household nutrition and food security. However, Odisha’s initiative is commendable in its prioritizing of nutritional requirements, leading to safer and healthier food options for its residents.
