Millet Cultivation Struggles to Gain Momentum in Kangra Amid Market Challenges

 

Kangra, Himachal Pradesh: Despite sustained efforts by the state government to encourage millet farming as part of sustainable and organic agriculture initiatives, Kangra district’s farmers are hesitant to switch to these hardy, nutritious crops. The lack of dependable markets and buyers remains a significant barrier to millet adoption in the region.

While millets such as finger millet (ragi), barnyard millet (sanwa), foxtail millet (kangni), proso millet (cheena), and little millet (kutki) are known for their low water requirements and nutritional value, farmers in Kangra continue to favor more lucrative options like seasonal vegetables, maize, and fruits, where assured income is more likely.

Subhash, a farmer from Nurpur, explained, “Without a secure market or buyers, growing millets is risky. We can’t afford to invest in crops without guaranteed returns.”

Experts like Harjeet Singh from the ATMA project, who recently trained at MANAGE, Hyderabad, highlight millets’ environmental benefits and resilience to climate stress. Yet, he stresses that for farmers to fully embrace millet cultivation, they need confidence in financial rewards.

Despite various government schemes and active promotion by the CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University through training and seed distribution, millet farming has not picked up pace in Kangra. Neighboring districts such as Mandi, Shimla, and Chamba have shown better progress in millet production, showcasing the potential Kangra is yet to tap.

Local stakeholders urge that establishing effective procurement systems and marketing support is crucial to encourage farmers. Until these gaps are addressed, millets may remain sidelined in Kangra’s agricultural landscape.

 

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