Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 25. Modi used his Mann Ki Baat address to spotlight the state's traditional millet crops. He specifically praised the work of farmers and women entrepreneurs in the West Garo Hills and West Jaintia Hills districts. The move aims to boost rural incomes.
Sangma took to X to voice his appreciation for the national attention. He credited specific locals for leading the charge. Chekjing Sangma from Sadolpara revived millet farming in West Garo Hills. Meanwhile, Darapbiang Mulieh and Daieidlangki Suchiang from Khanduli successfully promoted new millet products to preserve old farming methods.
These two women in Khanduli created cookies, cakes, muffins, and baby food using the grain. Their value-added goods sparked fresh demand and convinced local growers to return to the fields. The state had seen a sharp drop in millet cultivation over the years. "As a Government, we remain committed to supporting our farmers, strengthening rural livelihoods and working towards our shared vision of doubling farmers’ income," the chief minister wrote.
India pushed for a global focus on the crop. The United Nations adopted India's proposal to name 2023 the International Year of Millets. This push aims to improve public awareness about the nutritional value and long-term viability of millet farming.
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