How Climate, Crops, and Health Concerns Are Scripting a Millet Revolution in India

Abstract

Millets are small grains, normally referred to as “inferior goods” in the classification of goods, under microeconomics. Across South East Asia and Africa, it has been a staple food for ages. In India, since ancient times, millets have been cultivated and consumed but are not as popular as rice and wheat. In April 2018, India declared 2018 as the National Year of Millets. The United Nations General Assembly at its 75th session in March 2021 declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets. India is already among the five largest economies in the world. India is predicted to be the third fastest-growing economy by 2030. As we embark on to 2024, India has to achieve the dream of a $5 trillion economy and ensure self-sufficiency in the production of food grains. Through the rapid pace of innovation and ideation, and by ensuring food availability, India can achieve a higher growth trajectory. The demographic dividend, digital prowess and the renewed focus on “Millets production” will help India to achieve the goals of “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. This article is an attempt to understand that “encouragement to millet production and consumption” can lead to multifarious gains. Hence, to achieve the goals of sustainable development, it is imperative that healthy and cost-effective crops are encouraged.