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Indian Initiatives for Millets
• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is
formulating guidelines to include millets in school, hospital,
and government canteen menus.
• The Ministry of Youth Affairs is hosting webinars and
conferences to raise awareness of millets through the Fit
India app.
• The Ministry of Food Processing Industries is organizing
millet fairs and exhibitions in different states to promote
these grains.

Goal 1: No Poverty
Millets: A Powerful Weapon Against Poverty

In the fight against poverty, millets are emerging as a formidable
ally, not just in India but worldwide. The United Nations General
Assembly’s declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets
underscores their significance, a proposal made by India to the Food
and Agriculture Organization (FAO). India’s remarkable 41% market
share, coupled with a projected 4.5% compound annual growth rate
in the global millet market, signals the growing recognition of these
grains on the world stage.

Realizing the Potential of Millets

Millets possess immense potential in addressing poverty, hunger, and
climate change, making them a linchpin in sustainable development.
Their hardiness allows them to thrive in extreme conditions, from
floods to droughts, offering a stable source of income for small-scale
farmers.

Improved Livelihoods for Small-Scale Farmers
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Global Millets
Conference in New Delhi, terming it a symbol of India’s responsibilities
towards the global good. India’s Millet Mission, as declared by the
Prime Minister, will be a boon for 2.5 crore millet-producing farmers
in the country. The Indian Institute of Millets Research of ICAR has
been recognized as a Global Centre of Excellence.
Market Access and Income Generation

The promotion of millet opens up new economic opportunities for
small-scale farmers. These farmers can access broader markets,

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