Millets (Shri Anna)

What is Millets (Shri Anna)?

Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that are highly nutritious and drought-resistant. They are often referred to as 'Shri Anna' in India, emphasizing their importance for food security and farmer welfare.

Historical Background

Millets have been cultivated in India for thousands of years. They were a staple food in many regions before the Green Revolution shifted focus to rice and wheat. There is renewed interest in millets due to their nutritional benefits and climate resilience. The year 2023 was celebrated as the International Year of Millets.

Key Points

9 points

1.
Types of millets: Jowar (Sorghum), Bajra (Pearl Millet), Ragi (Finger Millet), Kodo Millet, Kutki (Little Millet), Cheena (Proso Millet), Kangni (Foxtail Millet).
2.
Nutritional benefits: Rich in fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. Gluten-free and suitable for people with celiac disease.
3.
Climate resilience: Drought-resistant and can grow in marginal soils with low rainfall.
4.
Economic benefits: Provides income opportunities for small and marginal farmers.
5.
Government initiatives: National Food Security Mission (NFSM) - Nutri-Cereals, promotion through schemes and subsidies.
6.
Increased focus on research and development to improve millet varieties and yields.
7.
Promoting value addition and processing of millets.
8.
Raising awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of millets.
9.
Integrating millets into public distribution systems and school feeding programs.

Visual Insights

Recent Developments

5 developments

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Celebration of the International Year of Millets 2023.

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Increased government support for millet production and processing.

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Growing consumer demand for millet-based products.

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Research on developing climate-resilient millet varieties.

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Integration of millets into the mid-day meal scheme in some states.

Source Topic

Madhya Pradesh Declares 2026 as Farmer Welfare Year

Economy

UPSC Relevance

Important for UPSC GS Paper 3 (Economic Development & Food Security). Questions related to millets, their nutritional benefits, and government initiatives are frequently asked in both Prelims and Mains.