The initiative aims to produce 20,000 kg of millet seed in 2024-25, with plans to expand as local capacity grows.
The Bihar Centre of Excellence for Millets is focused on improving food and nutrition security by using science to boost millet production. Its goal is to make Bihar a leader in sustainable agriculture, improve crop resilience, and support millions of farmers. Trials of different millet varieties are helping to identify the best performers for future production. Currently, 150 farmers are growing millet on 34 hectares, and over 140 farmers have received improved seeds and training.
Dr. Sean Mayes from ICRISAT pointed out that millet farming in Bihar is still limited, with only 8,700 hectares in production. The initiative aims to increase access to high-performing millet varieties, benefiting vulnerable groups like women and children.
The Centre is also helping smallholder farmers with millet processing demonstrations, new tools, and field days, reaching over 1,194 farmers, including 240 women. Two permanent processing sites are planned, and a model farm in Mayapur showcases sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation.
In addition, the Centre is working on key areas along the entire millet value chain, from seed improvement to market connections.
ICRISAT’s Dr. Stanford Blade praised the progress made by the Government of Bihar, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, and partners, emphasizing that the Centre will strengthen Bihar’s food systems, improve farmer resilience, and promote sustainable agricultural growth.
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