Is the love for millets growing across India and the world, as PM Modi suggests?
Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his appreciation for the increasing adoption of millets, or Shree Anna, by the people of India. He highlighted the ongoing enthusiasm for these grains, their nutritional benefits, grassroots initiatives by women farmers, and their use in religious offerings, underscoring a significant trend in promoting health and local agriculture.
Key Takeaways
Growing Adoption: Increasing preference for millets among the Indian populace.
Grassroots Innovation: Women farmers are leading initiatives to process and market millets.
Nutritional Benefits: Millets are recognized as a superfood with multiple health advantages.
Religious Integration: Millets are increasingly used in religious offerings across temples.
Economic Impact: Shree Anna supports farmer incomes and public health improvements.
New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday conveyed his deep gratitude to the citizens of the nation for their growing adoption of millets, referred to as Shree Anna. He noted that the enthusiasm surrounding these grains remains robust, even years after the declaration of the Millet Year.
During the 130th episode of his monthly radio segment Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi remarked, “I am pleased to see that the affection for Shree Anna among the populace continues to flourish. Though we proclaimed 2023 as the Millet Year, even today, three years later, the enthusiasm and dedication towards it in India and globally are quite encouraging.”
Focusing on grassroots initiatives, the Prime Minister highlighted the inspiring efforts of women farmers in Kallakurichi district of Tamil Nadu.
“Approximately 800 women farmers are part of the Periyapalayam Millet FPC. Recognizing the increasing popularity of millets, these women set up a Millet Processing Unit, and are now directly marketing their millet-based products,” he stated.
PM Modi also pointed out similar innovative practices by farmers in Rajasthan. He mentioned that in Ramsar, over 900 farmers are associated with the Ramsar Organic Farmer Producer Company, actively engaging in experiments with Shree Anna.
“These farmers primarily grow pearl millet, which is processed to create ready-to-eat laddus, currently in high demand,” he noted.
Additionally, the Prime Minister observed a rising trend of millets being utilized in religious offerings.
“I am also thrilled to learn that many temples now exclusively use millets in their prasad. I sincerely commend all the temple administrators for this commendable initiative,” he added.
Emphasizing the numerous advantages of millets, PM Modi stated that Shree Anna not only enhances farmers’ incomes but also “ensures improvements” in public health.
“Millets are nutrient-rich and considered a superfood. In our country, the winter season is ideal for dietary consumption. Therefore, we should certainly incorporate Shree Anna into our meals during this season,” he concluded.
Point of View
It is evident that the increasing adoption of millets reflects a significant shift towards healthier eating habits and sustainable agriculture. This grassroots movement led by women farmers is commendable and highlights the importance of local produce in addressing public health challenges. The recognition by a prominent leader like PM Modi only amplifies the need for continued support and awareness around millets, framing it as a crucial step towards both economic and health improvements for farmers and consumers alike.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did PM Modi emphasize millets?
PM Modi emphasized millets for their nutritional benefits, potential to improve farmers' incomes, and their growing popularity in India and worldwide.
How are women farmers contributing to millet production?
Women farmers in regions like Tamil Nadu are establishing processing units and directly supplying millet products to the market, showcasing entrepreneurship.
What is the significance of the Millet Year?
The Millet Year was declared to promote the cultivation and consumption of millets, highlighting their health benefits and importance in sustainable agriculture.
How are millets being used in religious offerings?
Many temples in India are now using millets exclusively for their prasad, promoting a healthier alternative in religious practices.
