Odisha’s Millet Mission

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.

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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