Page 82 - Millets Natures NutriGrain

Millets are a crucial component of India’s ecological and economic
security and provide millions of resource-poor farmers with a
significant supply of food and fodder. These millets are also referred
to as “coarse cereals” or “poor people’s cereals”. Due to its high
protein, vitamin, and mineral content, Indian millets are nutritionally
superior to wheat and rice. They are also glycaemic index-low and
gluten-free, making them perfect for anyone with diabetes or celiac
disease.

India ranks among the world’s top 5 exporters of millet. World export
of millet has increased from USD 400 million in 2020 to USD 470
million in 2021 (ITC trade map). India’s millet exports were worth
USD 64.28 million in the year 2021-22, against USD 59.75 million
in 2020-21. The share of Millet-based products is negligible.

India is the largest producer and exporter of cereal products in the
world. India’s export of cereals was Rs. 96,011.42 Crore during the
year 2021-22. Rice (including Basmati and Non-Basmati) occupied
the major share in India’s total cereals export (75% in value terms)
during the same period. On the other hand, other cereals including
wheat represented only about 25 % share of total cereals exported
from India during this period.

Various kinds of millet

Historically in India, three kinds of millet are popular as a staple
food: Foxtail millet, Barnyard millet, and Black finger millet.
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