Millets: a rising star at G-20

Millets: a rising star at G-20

Author:- AAKANKSHA YADAV, B.B.A LL.B(hons), 4TH YEAR, BABASAHEB BHIMRAO AMBEDKAR CENTRAL UNIVERSITY, LUCKNOW 

Recently world witnessed stunning diplomatic success at G20 summit under India’s presidency, producing  a joint statement “Delhi Declaration” by the members of G20. Numerous unilateral meeting took place, several initiatives were signed off such as  green credit initiative for environment and climate observation, black sea grain initiative for movement of food, grains, and fertilizers from Russia and Ukraine to rest of world. In the middle of all these happenings Millets found its significance in G20 state dinner menu. World leaders gathered for the G20 Summit in New Delhi on September 9 and 10 were served  with delicious millet-based dishes prepared by renowned chefs of the country. The menu at the Presidential Banquet hosted by Droupadi Murmu, included "foxtail millet leaf crisps topped with yoghurt and spiced chutney, Kerala red rice tossed with millet crisp and curry leaf, a cardamom scented barnyard millet pudding with fig and peach compote", a very well chosen spot for promoting and highlighting 2023 as International Year of Millets. India pushed for millets – a varied group of whole grains – at the United Nations, making 2023 the International Year of Millets, as this highly nutritious and healthy crop has significantly gained popularity because of its positive environmental impact. 

Millets is a collective term refers to a number of small-seeded annual grasses such as Ragi (Finger millet), Jowar (Sorghum), Sama (Little millet), Bajra (Pearl millet), and Variga (Proso millet), that are cultivated as grain crops, primarily in dry areas in temperate, subtropical and tropical regions. India is the largest producer of millet as of 2021, with a total share of 41%, followed by Niger (~12%) and China (~8%). India also ranks 12th among those countries that produce high yields of millet can be seen as a nation curbing the global hunger and malnutrition problems by exporting millets but before that lets consider the merit list of millets, as to why it is talk of the town. 

As we all know that millet are considered to be the unsung hero of sustainable agriculture, is making waves with its low environmental footprint. This hardy crop boasts a short growing season and an uncanny knack for thriving in less-than-ideal soil conditions, effectively diminishing the need for chemical fertilisers. Moreover, its extensive root system acts as a natural bulwark against soil erosion while enhancing soil fertility. They are also considered to be important nutri- cereals as they have superior nutrition value than wheat and rice with high amount of protein, fibers, vitamins and minerals. These  grains are nutritional powerhouses. Laden with vitamins (like niacin, folate, and vitamin B6), minerals (including magnesium, iron, and zinc), fiber, and protein, they offer a symphony of nutrients. This diverse nutritional profile positions millets as valuable allies in the battle against malnutrition, especially in vulnerable populations. Considering more about its merit list, millets are drought resistance, can be planted in the water scarcity areas and relieving the stress on irrigation in water scarcity areas. List doesn’t not stop here, millets also requires less labor force and minimum dependency on heavy machinery, lowering the production cost for farmers making them cost effective food option, with resilience against pest and diseases and remarkable shelf life forging way of food security in future. Due to climate change, pollution and unpredictable rainfall pattern millets can be concluded as a super food of the future, promising benefits at the each stage of journey from begin planted in fields to been eaten in plate. This commitment to biodiversity and sustainability sets millets apart as not just a grain but a beacon of hope for a greener, healthier future.

There is no wonder why Millets were included in the state dinner menu of G20 summit 2023, as awareness about millets potential to tackles food security, problem resulting out of climate change and offering as sustainable solution combat hunger, malnutrition, and climatic uncertainties need to conveyed at International level. The G20 summit’s recognition of millets, is a visionary step toward a more sustainable, nourished, and harmonious world because of firstly,  millets are categorized among best crop which can be grown to confront the sustainable development needs, changing climate and long term food security. Secondly, millets provide an answer to the growing concerns surrounding resource conservation and environmental impact. They require fewer resources, making them a sustainable alternative to water-intensive monocultures. Lastly , millets are essential in the fight against malnutrition and the quest for food security, able to fulfill daily nutrition requirements of an individual. Perhaps we can conclude that millets offers a solution to all the problems ranging from farmer to the consumer. As 2023 unfolds as the National Millet Year, we have a unique opportunity. It’s a chance for nations to unite in their recognition of the nutritional, economic, and environmental merits of millet.