Millets National Media Portal
Millets National Media Portal
A recent study published in Nature Scientific Reports has highlighted the importance of traditional millet varieties grown in Odisha for improving nutrition and supporting sustainable agriculture. The research focused on finger millet cultivated by tribal farmers in regions such as Koraput, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, and Rayagada, showing that these local crops continue to perform well under different environmental conditions.
Scientists evaluated 13 traditional varieties and identified a few that stood out for their stable and reliable yields. Varieties like Gupteswar Bharathi, Kundra Bati, Laxmipur Kalia, and Malyabant Mami performed consistently, even in challenging farming conditions. Among them, Gupteswar Bharathi showed strong performance across all regions, making it a promising option for wider cultivation.
The study also found that these millets are highly nutritious, containing good levels of iron, zinc, and calcium. Crops grown in Koraput were found to have even higher protein and mineral content, suggesting that local growing conditions can further improve their nutritional value. In addition to grain, these varieties also produce a large amount of stover, which can be used as animal feed, adding extra value for farmers.
Researchers stressed that preserving and promoting traditional millet varieties can help improve food security, support farmer livelihoods, and build resilience to climate change. They also suggested that some of these crops could be considered for Geographical Indication (GI) status, which may help increase their market value and protect local agricultural heritage.
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