Early Times Report
Reasi, Aug 19: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Reasi, operating under the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies of Jammu (SKUAST-J), is actively encouraging and guiding farmers in millets production and processing. This initiative is led by Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. BN Tripathi and guided by Director Extension (DE) Prof. SK Gupta of SKUAST-J.
Dr. Banarsi Lal, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK, Reasi, emphasized that Reasi district in J&K has significant potential for millets production. Varieties such as pearl millet, little millet, foxtail, kodo, barnyard, and finger millet can be cultivated in the district. Dr. Banarsi Lal spoke about the International Year of Millets-2023, declared by the United Nations and Government of India. He highlighted millets’ nutritional and health benefits, underscoring their potential to address malnutrition and provide valuable nutrients.
Dr. Lobzang Stanzen discussed the nutritional aspects and health benefits of various types of millets, stressing the need to incorporate millets into diets to fulfill nutritional requirements. He emphasized the importance of increasing the share of nutri-cereals in the national food baskets to enhance overall nutrition.
Adarsh Gupta, DDM NABARD, Reasi, visited KVK’s demonstrations and praised their efforts in promoting millets. He emphasized the value-added products of millets for increased farm returns, discussed marketing potential and branding strategies for millets, and stressed the need for expanding millet cultivation areas. Farmers are showing strong interest in millet cultivation due to its benefits.
The initiative aims to increase millets’ production and consumption, promoting their role as superfoods with high protein, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Millets are climate-friendly, requiring less water and resources, making them a sustainable choice for farmers while addressing nutritional security and generating income for small and marginal farmers. |
