Millets for nutritional security of India ?

 Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that have been cultivated for thousands of years in India and other parts of the world. They are known for their high nutritional value, making them an important food source for many communities in India.

According to data from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), millets are rich in protein, minerals, and vitamins. For example, pearl millet (bajra) contains about 10-12% protein, finger millet (ragi) contains about 7-12% protein, while foxtail millet (kangni) and proso millet (barri) contain about 9-11% protein. Millets are also a good source of dietary fiber and have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for people with diabetes and other health conditions.

The Indian government has been promoting millets as a source of nutritional security through various schemes such as the National Food Security Mission and the National Nutrition Mission. These schemes aim to increase the availability of millets in the public distribution system and to improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations.

In addition to government efforts, private sector and civil society organizations have also been working to promote millets in India. They have been creating awareness about the benefits of millets and promoting their cultivation and consumption through various initiatives such as millet fairs, farmer field schools, and community-based organizations.

Despite the efforts made to promote millets, the consumption of millets has been declining over the years. According to data from the National Sample Survey Office, the per capita consumption of millets in India has decreased from 20.1 kg per year in 1993-1994 to 14.4 kg per year in 2011-2012. This decline in consumption is due to various factors such as lack of awareness about the benefits of millets, and the lack of proper infrastructure and facilities for millet cultivation.

In conclusion, millets are a source of high nutritional value, and are an important food source for many communities in India. The government and private sector have been working to promote millets as a source of nutritional security, but the consumption of millets has been declining over the years