Page 133 - Millets Natures NutriGrain

policies, there’s potential for a resurgence in millet cultivation and
consumption in the region.

4.1.3. Vidarbha:

The Vidarbha region of Maharashtra demonstrates a varied agricultural

landscape. Predominantly, factors such as low soil fertility, water
scarcity, low yield potential, and restricted market accessibility
significantly hinder millet production in this region. However, recent

advancements like the introduction of modern agricultural practices,
specifically the use of seed drills and row planters, have shown
promise in addressing these challenges.

Both seed drills and row planters offer precision planting, ensuring

uniform growth and higher yields. They offer benefits in the form
of uniform seed spacing, accurate seed placement, reduced seed
wastage, and timesaving, leading to increased efficiency in the
cultivation process.

The region is home to a plethora of millets, including Jowar, Bajra,
Ragi, Kodo Millet, Little Millet, and Foxtail Millet. Not only do
these crops serve as the primary source of nutrition for the local
communities, but their inherent drought-resistant properties, coupled
with their high nutritional value, have also made them an excellent

choice for cultivation.

Moreover, policy interventions emphasizing micro-irrigation,
technological advancements, and organic farming hold the potential
to transform the agricultural landscape of Vidarbha. With increasing

global emphasis on sustainable and health-conscious food choices,
millets from Vidarbha are poised to gain more prominence in the
agricultural and health sectors.

133 Millets: 2023