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.
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.
