Millets, with their rich nutritional profile and adaptability to diverse climate, are gaining prominence in the global grains market. As of 2022-23, global millets production stands at 32.1 million metric tons. Millets such as pearl millet, finger millet, foxtail millet, and sorghum play a crucial role in enhancing nutritional diversity and addressing food security challenges, especially in regions prone to drought and climate variability. They are well-suited to semi-arid and drought prone areas, thriving in conditions where other crops may struggle. This inherent resilience not only supports farmers' livelihoods but also contributes to environmental sustainability by conserving water and soil health. Moreover, millets nutritional profile, being rich in essential nutrients and gluten-free, aligns with global trends towards healthier and more diverse diets.
India, a leading producer of millets, plays a crucial role in the global millet trade. The top destinations in the current list of India's millet export are Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, UK, Yemen, Oman and Algeria. India is exporting millets to 139 countries across the globe. The export of value-added products of Indian millets are also spread across the world. Additionally, promoting millet cultivation can lead to economic opportunities for farmers, support sustainable agricultural practices, and preserve traditional knowledge and cultural heritage associated with millet farming. Thus, there is a need for a global platform that advocates for the recognition and utilization of millets to address global challenges related to nutrition, sustainability, food security, economic development, and cultural preservation.
The launch of the Global Millets Forum signifies a strategic step towards addressing critical challenges, emerging opportunities, and fostering the growth and prosperity of the millets sector on a global scale. Through focused initiatives such as advocacy, research, market development, and stakeholder engagement, the forum aims to create a conducive environment for sustainable millet agriculture worldwide. By aligning goals of enhancing food security and nutrition globally, the Global Millets Forum is poised to play a pivotal role in promoting the resilience and nutritional richness of millets for a healthier and more sustainable future for everyone.
The establishment of the Global Millets Forum represents a significant milestone in sustainable agriculture worldwide. This forum is set to become a central hub for all stakeholders involved in the millets sector, including farmers, researchers, policymakers, processors, distributors, and consumers. Millets hold immense importance not only for their nutritional value and environmental sustainability but also for their potential to revolutionize global food systems. By uniting diverse stakeholders under one platform, the Global Millets Forum aims to amplify the voice of the millet industry, advocate for policy reforms, drive research and innovation, promote market access, and foster international collaborations. In doing so, the forum seeks to unlock the full potential of millets, paving the way for a more resilient, nutritious, and sustainable future for generations to come
