An International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) supported project aiming to revive Kodo and Kutki Millets cultivation has been showing promising results since its inception in 2013-14. The initiative took root in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh and has breathed new life into these once-forgotten crops. IFAD, a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 1977, aims to alleviate rural poverty and fight hunger and malnutrition, primarily in developing countries.
About the Project
The initiative began with 1,497 women farmers primarily from the Gonda and Baiga tribes cultivating Kodo and Kutki millets across 749 acres in 40 villages. As part of the project, these farmers were equipped with high-quality seeds and imparted essential training on field preparation, line-sowing, use of compost, and application of specific plant protection chemicals.
Farmers’ Self Help Groups and Their Role
A federation of farmers’ self-help groups was instrumental in procuring the harvested produce and facilitating mechanical de-hulling, which saved significant time compared to the traditional manual husking methods.
The Impact of the Project
The project created a considerable impact by increasing the number of farmers growing kodo-kutki in the project area to 14,301 in 2019-20, and the acreage to 14,876 acres. It contributed significantly towards achieving nutritional goals, combating child malnutrition, and reviving millet cultivation, with crop yields reported to be 1.5-2 times higher than before.
The Importance of Millets
Often referred to as Superfood, millets are valued for their high protein, fibre, vitamins, and mineral content. In India, Jowar, Bajra, and Ragi are the three major cultivated millet varieties. However, India is also home to bio-genetically diverse and indigenous varieties of small millets such as Kodo, Kutki, Chenna, and Sanwa.
The Need for Reviving Millet Cultivation
Millets’ nutritional superiority, cost-effectiveness, and resilience to challenging climate conditions make them an ideal choice for sustainable agriculture. They serve as an effective tool against anaemia prevalent among Indian women of reproductive age and infants due to their high iron content. Economically, the low investment required for their production could provide a steady income source for farmers.
Challenges Faced in Promoting Millets
Despite their myriad benefits, millets face certain challenges like consumer preference for wheat due to its gluten proteins and increasing demand for ultra-processed foods. Additionally, laws like National Food Security Act of 2013 have unintentionally reduced the demand for millets by promoting wheat and rice.
Indian & International Initiatives Promoting Millets
Recognizing the potential of millets, the Union Agriculture Ministry designated them as “Nutri-Cereals” in April 2018. That same year was celebrated as ‘National Year of Millets’. Additionally, the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of millets was increased as a financial incentive for farmers. On the international front, the UN General Assembly adopted an India-sponsored resolution to celebrate 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
Way Forward
Going forward, encouraging farming of millets is crucial considering their climate resilience and ability to grow on marginal lands. These crops can play a pivotal role in nourishing people across different income categories and supporting climate adaptation of rain-fed farming systems.
