Millet Production Stagnates in India, RBI Annual Report 2023-24

According to the latest annual report by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), millet production in India has not seen significant growth in recent years. Despite being a traditional staple and resilient crop, millets have not achieved the same level of production increase as other major crops in the country. The report attributes this stagnation to limited market demand, inadequate marketing infrastructure, and a lack of awareness about the nutritional benefits of millets among consumers. Additionally, the focus on high-yield cereal crops like rice and wheat has overshadowed the importance of millet cultivation.

Key Insights from the RBI Report:

The RBI’s annual report for 2023-24 indicates that India is facing stagnation in both the acreage and production of millets. Although India accounts for almost 80 percent of Asia's and 20 percent of the global millet production, there has been little growth in recent years.

Importance of Millets for Food Security in India:

Millets play a crucial role in food security in India, especially for rural and economically disadvantaged populations. These grains are highly nutritious and can provide food security in regions where other crops might not thrive due to harsh climatic conditions. Millets are hardy and drought-resistant, capable of growing in marginal soils and low-rainfall areas, making them a reliable food source and an ideal crop for farmers in challenging environmental conditions.

Government Initiatives to Promote Millets:

1. National Food Security Mission (NFSM): The NFSM aims to increase millet production and productivity, focusing on rainfed areas.
2. Price Support Scheme: The government provides Minimum Support Price (MSP) for millets to encourage farmers to grow and sell these crops.
3. Promotion in Public Distribution System (PDS): Millets have been included in the PDS to make them more accessible to the public and to ensure a stable market for the produce.
4. National Initiative on Millets: The government has launched a national initiative to promote millet cultivation and increase its consumption.
5. Establishment of Millet Parks: Various states have set up millet parks to boost millet production and processing.
6. National Millet Museum: Located in Hyderabad, this museum aims to raise awareness and understanding of millets.
7. Seed Kit Distribution: The government provides seed kits and other inputs to farmers to encourage millet cultivation.
8. Establishment of Nutri-Gardens: Behavioral change campaigns are being conducted to increase consumer demand for nutritious grains.