Are Millet Noodles the Healthier Choice for Children in Bihar?
Synopsis
Discover how Bihar is reinventing children's meals with nutritious millet noodles made from ragi and jowar. This innovative initiative not only celebrates traditional food but also promotes health benefits for the younger generation. Find out how this initiative could change the way children eat in schools and at home.
Key Takeaways
Millet noodles offer a nutritious alternative to refined flour noodles.
Initiatives by Bihar Agricultural University promote traditional grains.
The noodles are rich in fiber and protein .
Plans to market through Jeevika self-help groups.
Potential inclusion in school meal programs.
Patna, Jan 16 (NationPress) A diverse selection of locally sourced millet noodles, including ragi, bajra, and jowar, is emerging as a contemporary superfood, rekindling interest in our lost culinary practices while providing numerous health advantages. In a pioneering effort, agricultural experts at the Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) in Bhagalpur have crafted noodles from ragi and jowar, which are being promoted as the Nutri Tiffin Box for kids.
Moreover, with the central government recognizing traditional millets as a 'superfood', there is a surge of enthusiasm among food lovers, restaurant owners, and noodle producers to innovate quick meals based on these grains, which are staples in Indian cuisine.
As noted by a representative of Bihar Agricultural University, the ragi and jowar noodles will be showcased to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during his forthcoming “Samriddhi Yatra” (Prosperity Journey).
BAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. D.R. Singh characterized the millet-based noodles as a nutritious substitute for refined flour noodles like Maggi and advocated for their market integration through Jeevika self-help groups in Bihar.
Additionally, he proposed incorporating these jowar and ragi noodles into the mid-day meal scheme in schools.
“Rich in nutrition and fiber, they are advantageous for children, the elderly, and patients,” he remarked.
During a press conference, the Vice-Chancellor also provided samples of the noodles for evaluation.
Elaborating on the merits of millet noodles, Dr. Singh stated, "We have created Nutri Tiffin Boxes using millets. Presently, most Maggi products available are primarily made from refined flour, low in fiber and protein, making them an unhealthy snack option for children. They are unsuitable for tiffin boxes."
He further mentioned that plans are underway to establish stalls for millet products at locations like Patna and Purnea Airport, pending necessary approvals.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the positive implications of this initiative for children's health and the revival of traditional foods. The promotion of millet-based products aligns with national health goals and offers an opportunity to educate the public on the importance of nutrition.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are millet noodles made from?
Millet noodles are primarily made from ragi , bajra , and jowar , which are traditional grains recognized for their health benefits.
Why are these noodles considered a healthier alternative?
These noodles are rich in fiber and protein , making them a more nutritious option compared to traditional noodles made from refined flour.
How will these noodles be distributed?
The millet noodles will be marketed through Jeevika self-help groups in Bihar, ensuring accessibility for the community.
When will these noodles be presented to the Chief Minister?
The noodles will be showcased during the Chief Minister's upcoming “Samriddhi Yatra” (Prosperity Journey).
Can these noodles be included in school meals?
Yes, there are proposals to integrate jowar and ragi noodles into the mid-day meal program in schools.
