 Early Times Report
JAMMU, July 8: Rekha Mahajan, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) District President of Jammu South, has outlined a strategy to promote the use of millets during an interactive session with farmers. She claims that this move will strengthen the economic condition of small and marginal farmers who cultivate these crops.
The program was organized by the BJP Mahila Morcha in coordination with Kunjwani Mandal. Rekha Mahajan, along with other party members, felicitated farmers in Babliana Panchayat in Kunjwani Mandal of RS Pura Constituency. This event took place as part of the celebration of nine years of the Modi-led government, with the BJP Mahila Morcha dedicating this month as Millets Month.
Addressing the gathering of farmers, Rekha Mahajan stated that the central government is making swift efforts to enhance the production, yield, processing, and consumption of millets in the country. She emphasized the numerous farmer welfare schemes introduced by the Modi government over the past nine years, which aim to improve the lives of farmers through financial security, skill development, market access, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Rekha Mahajan highlighted the climate resilience of millets, noting that they require less water and minimal use of fertilizers and pesticides. She mentioned the multiple health benefits of consuming millets, as they are highly nutritious. Rekha Mahajan expressed that increasing millet production will boost the income of farmers, particularly small and marginal ones. She also acknowledged the commendable work being done by numerous millet-focused startups.
Rekha Mahajan stressed the importance of millets by mentioning that the United Nations General Assembly, supported by 72 countries, declared the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023), positioning India at the forefront of the celebrations. She highlighted that the government is working on a mission mode to promote millets as a crop beneficial for farmers, the environment, and consumers. The year-long celebrations for millets, known as Shree Anna, will include various activities aimed at creating awareness about the environmental, health, and economic benefits of millet farming.
Regarding the collaboration between the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) and the ministry, Rekha Mahajan mentioned initiatives such as the Millets Experience Centre, which will expand options for consumers seeking healthier alternatives and bring visibility to India's millet-based startup community. She further stated that millet-based products will play a crucial role in promoting healthy snacking and encouraging people to adopt millets-centric diets. Rekha Mahajan added that India produces more than 170 lakh tonnes of millets, with Jowar, Bajra, Ragi, Sawan, Kangni, Cheena, Kodo, Kutki, and Kuttu being some of the major millet varieties. |
