One Woman’s Millet Momo Revolution in Arunachal Pradesh

In Chug Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, 41-year-old Rinchin Jomba has reinvented the traditional momo by using finger millet (kongpu) dough instead of refined flour. She fills the momos with locally grown potatoes and onion greens, creating a healthy, traditional snack. Her recipe won the 2023 millet recipe contest organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra.

Jomba’s aim is to reintroduce millet to younger generations, many of whom have never tasted traditional dishes made with local grains. Within a year, her millet momos became very popular among locals and tourists, sparking renewed interest in tribal cuisine and native grains.

Beyond just a recipe, Jomba and a group of local women run a small eatery serving dishes made from traditional grains and forest produce. Their initiative helps revive old culinary habits and promotes awareness of regional food heritage.

The millet-momo movement has highlighted the importance of traditional grains like finger millet, not only for their nutritional value but also for preserving cultural heritage. Jomba’s work shows how traditional recipes can be adapted creatively to appeal to modern tastes while supporting sustainable and healthy food practices.

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