Odisha has taken a pioneering step in promoting sustainable agriculture and combating malnutrition by launching the Odisha Millet Mission (OMM). This ambitious initiative focuses on reviving traditional millet cultivation, empowering tribal farmers, and ensuring nutritional security across the state.
Key Features of the Millet Mission
- Focus on Tribal Farmers:
The program targets tribal-dominated districts like Koraput, Rayagada, and Nabarangpur, engaging over 1 lakh farmers in millet cultivation.
(Odisha Agriculture Department) - Subsidies and Support:
Farmers are provided with seeds, fertilizers, and farm machinery subsidies along with minimum support prices (MSP) for their produce. - Nutritional Intervention:
Millet-based meals are now included in the Mid-Day Meal Scheme and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) to address malnutrition among children and women.
Economic and Social Impact
- Increased Income for Farmers:
Millet cultivation has raised farmers’ incomes by 30%, thanks to government procurement and growing demand in domestic and international markets. - Combatting Malnutrition:
Rich in protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients, millets have improved dietary diversity in rural households, benefiting over 10 lakh children and women. - Boost to Agri-Business:
Millet-based startups and processing units have been established, generating employment and adding value to the supply chain.
Sustainability at the Core
- Climate-Resilient Crops:
Millets, known for their drought resistance and low water requirements, are ideal for Odisha’s climate, ensuring food security despite erratic weather patterns. - Biodiversity Conservation:
Promoting indigenous millet varieties like ragi, bajra, and jowar preserves traditional agricultural practices and enhances biodiversity.
Future Goals of the Millet Mission
- Expansion to All Districts:
The government aims to scale up the program, covering all 30 districts in Odisha by 2027. - Global Outreach:
Plans are in place to brand Odisha’s millets as a superfood and expand exports to Europe, USA, and Middle Eastern markets.
Reviving Tradition, Building Nutrition
The Odisha Millet Mission stands as a testament to the state’s vision of empowering farmers and addressing malnutrition sustainably. By integrating tradition with innovation, Odisha is setting an example for other states to follow.
