Shree Anna, often called Millets, is an extensive group of small-seeded grains grown for generations in India. With the rise of high-yielding crops and shifting dietary tastes, millets have progressively lost favour despite their excellent nutritional profile and capacity to adapt to various climatic conditions. However, the PM Modi-led government set out to revive millet production and consumption throughout the nation after realising the enormous potential of these ancient grains. Under the visionary efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, traditional grains like millet have seen a rebound in popularity in India in recent years. In addition to being a step towards a gastronomic renaissance, the resurgence of millets in Indian cuisine has also been a move towards promoting sustainable agriculture, improving public health, and supporting rural communities.
To encourage and promote the production of millets, the Indian government declared 2018 as the Year of Millets. Intending to feed the global population with foods rich in nutrients and generate demand domestically and internationally, the Indian government spearheaded the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution to announce 2023 as the International Year of Millets. The Indian government also initiated multiple initiatives to boost millet production and consumption.
India's millet journey starts with legislative attempts to support millet cultivation as a sustainable farming method. Prime Minister Modi supervised the introduction of multiple programmes designed to encourage farmers to grow millets. The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) is executing a Sub-Mission on Nutri-Cereals under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) across 28 States & 2 Union Territories, including Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, to improve millet (Shree Anna) production. This programme offers farmers financial rewards for applying cutting-edge farming techniques, providing certified seeds, and setting up training sessions. To make India a leader in millet farming globally, the Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), located in Hyderabad, has been designated as the Centre of Excellence for facilitating research and technology exchange. In addition, there is a significant rise in the MSP of Millets. For instance, the MSP for Millets has increased from Rs.1425 per quintal in 2017-18 to Rs.2250 per quintal in 2021-22.
In parallel, the Modi administration launched extensive awareness campaigns to promote millet consumption among the general public. During India's G20 presidency in 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare announced millets, featuring them prominently at esteemed events like the International Trade Fair and Surajkund Mela. The Prime Minister inaugurated the Global Millets (Shree Anna) Conference on March 18th-19th, 2023, reaffirming India's dedication to the International Year of Millets. Efforts to boost millet consumption include establishing a 'Millets Experience Centre (MEC)' at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi, and initiatives targeting government employees and canteens. Additionally, a dedicated e-platform for Virtual Trade Fairs (VTFs) has been launched to showcase millet-based products globally. Introducing millet-based dishes to G20 leaders aligns with the summit's theme of unity and a shared future, highlighting millets' cultural and nutritional significance. Furthermore, millet is promoted in Anganwadis through the Wheat-Based Nutrition Programme (WBNP), providing subsidised nutritious food options under the National Food Security Act 2013. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is actively aiding Indian exporters in expanding millet shipments and penetrating new markets.
Intending to promote and sell millet-based products, the Government of India, under PM Modi's leadership, also focused on building infrastructure and market connections. Creating value chains for millet products required setting up procurement centres, planning millet fairs and exhibitions, and working with partners in the business sector. The government sought to boost millet farmers' income and living standards by expanding their market access and promoting agricultural prosperity and economic resilience. As a result, millet exports have risen exponentially, and India is now the fifth-largest exporter of millet. India exported millets worth 64 million USD during the 2021–2022 fiscal year. Interestingly, millet exports rose by 12.5% between April and December 2023 compared to the same time the previous year, demonstrating an essential shift in export patterns during the last ten years.
The government's coordinated efforts paid off, as millets gradually began to resurface on Indian dinner tables. Additionally, PM Modi personally encourages and shows respect to all those involved in preserving and promoting millet. The PM praised Lahari Bai, a 27-year-old tribal lady from the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh who has been designated as the brand ambassador for millets for her efforts to preserve more than 150 different types of millets.
The upward trajectory of millet under Prime Minister Modi's direction demonstrates a comprehensive approach to advancing rural development, sustainable agriculture, and public health. The government is revitalising India's agricultural legacy and laying the groundwork for a healthier, more resilient future by utilising the potential ancient grains like millet. Millets are becoming increasingly popular as a symbol of Indian cuisine and culture, and their story demonstrates how tradition, creativity, and teamwork can contribute to the nation's future.
