Page 10 - Millets Natures NutriGrain

FOREWORD

In the celebratory year of the International Millet Year 2023, a pivotal moment for
addressing global challenges in nutrition, food security, and climate change, the
publication of “Millets: Nature’s Nutri-Grain” is both timely and vital. This book,
a culmination of the diligent efforts by intellectuals at IMDR, serves as a crucial
resource in these transformative times.
This book distinguishes itself by translating extensive research on millets into a
language that is accessible to the everyday reader. It isn’t just a compendium of
academic findings; it is a narrative that engages a wide spectrum of readers - from
farmers and chefs to nutritionists and policymakers.
“Millets: Nature’s Nutri-Grain” embarks readers on an enlightening journey across
the historical and geographical landscapes of millet, revealing its cultural impor-
tance and its pivotal role in human history. The book adeptly bridges the ancient
wisdom surrounding traditional agrarian practices with the pressing need for sus-
tainable methods in our pursuit of food security and nutritional wellness. It show-
cases millets, often hailed as ‘miracle grains,’ as resilient crops rich in nutrients,
symbolizing the perfect amalgamation of tradition and modern nutrition.
More than an academic text, this book is a clarion call for action. It outlines an
actionable plan that positions millets as a solution to contemporary global issues.
Despite the challenges in data collection and analysis, the editors have managed
to present this treasure trove of millet-related knowledge in an engaging and mo-
tivational manner.
As the Managing Director at Maharashtra Cooperative Development Corporation
Limited, witnessing the resurgence of these grains, I find this book particularly
resonant. It redefines millets, once seen as a ‘poor man’s grain,’ as a fundamental
element for sustainable and healthy futures.
“Millets: Nature’s Nutri-Grain - A Convergence of Tradition and Modern Insights”
is an invaluable guide that celebrates the resilience and sustainability of millets.
It is an eloquent call to embrace a new paradigm in our agricultural practices and
dietary choices, recognizing millets not merely as a relic of the past but as a vital
component for a sustainable, nutritious future.
I extend my congratulations to all those involved in this monumental effort. This
book is indeed a treasure for those seeking accessible, precise knowledge, and it
stands as a beacon for all stakeholders in the domain of food security and sustain-
able agriculture in 2023 and beyond.

Shri. Milind Akre
Managing Director
Maharashtra Cooperative Development Corporation Ltd.