Agriculture
In News: The state launched the Odisha Millet Mission (OMM), which aims to bring millets back to its fields and food plates by encouraging farmers to grow the crops that traditionally formed a substantial part of the diet and crop system in tribal areas.
About Odisha Millet Mission (OMM):
- To improve nutritional security and promote sustainable agricultural practices
- OMM also sells millet products, such as cookies, savoury snacks, vermicelli and processed millets, under a brand called “Millet Shakti” through food trucks, cafés, kiosks and other outlets.
Green Revolution(GR):
- The Green Revolution within India commenced in 1968, during which agriculture in India was converted into a modern industrial system
- Mainly led by agricultural scientist M. S. Swaminathan in India, this period was part of the larger Green Revolution endeavour initiated by Norman E Borlaug.
- Features of GR:
- Introduction of new and high yielding variety of seeds including high disease resistance varieties so that production will enhance.
- Increased use of fertilizers, pesticides and weedicides in order to reduce agricultural loses.
- Use of latest agricultural machinery like tractor, seed drills, threshers and harvester.
- Provision of irrigation facilities.
- Significance:
- Increase in food grain production, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Development of high-yielding varieties of wheat and rust resistant strains of wheat.
- The Green Revolution has transformed India to a food grain surplus country from a deficit one.
MUST READ: Negative impact of GR on soil
About Millets:
- Millets are hardy, resilient crops that have a low carbon and water footprint, can withstand high temperatures and grow on poor soil.
- India is the 5th largest exporter of millets in the world and produces 21MT of millets annually.
- Types of millets:
- Pearl Millet aka Bajra – is a popular grain in North-West India, including Rajasthan and Haryana. The fulfilling millet helps keep a check on cholesterol and is also recommended for diabetics.
- Finger Millet aka Ragi – has multiple macronutrients and micronutrients such as Vitamin B3, folate and calcium.
- Buckwheat Millet aka Kuttu – A popular grain during Navratri, Kuttu is known to help manage blood pressure and aid weight loss too.
- Barnyard Millet aka Sanwa – is a gluten-free source of both insoluble and soluble fibres.
- Foxtail Millet aka Kangni – is a grain well-known for promoting good cardiac health and maintaining good hair and skin.
- Kodo Millet – is rich in fibre and iron and helps prevent constipation and control blood sugar.
Source: Down to Earth
