ICAR Celebrates International Year of Millets 2023 with Nationwide Activities

 

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) joined the global celebration of the International Year of Millets – 2023 with a series of events and initiatives across the country. The celebration aimed to promote the nutritional, environmental, and economic benefits of millets and to encourage their wider adoption in farming systems and daily diets.

Throughout the year, ICAR and its network of research institutions, agricultural universities, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) organized awareness campaigns, exhibitions, farmer outreach programs, workshops, and millet-based food festivals. These events focused on educating farmers, students, nutritionists, policymakers, and the public about the resilience and versatility of millets.

Millets such as jowar (sorghum), bajra (pearl millet), and ragi (finger millet) are known for their ability to thrive in arid conditions, require minimal inputs, and are rich in essential nutrients. By promoting these traditional grains, ICAR supports sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and improved food and nutritional security.

To amplify the message, ICAR also collaborated with state governments, non-governmental organizations, and private stakeholders. Special efforts were made to link millet producers with markets, improve millet value chains, and promote millet-based entrepreneurship.

In alignment with the Government of India’s vision and the FAO’s declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets, ICAR’s initiatives reinforced India’s leadership in millet research, development, and advocacy.

 

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