Global Millets "Shri Anna" Conference 2023:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Global Millets (Shri Anna) conference at Subramaniam Hall, IARI Campus, Pusa. He also released a postage stamp and coin on the occasion. During this, he said, 'I am proud that India is leading the 'International Millet Year'. Events like the Global Millets Conference are not only important for Global Good but also a symbol of India's increasing responsibility for Global Goods. Climatic resilience is the strength of millet. Millets grow easily even under extremely adverse climatic conditions. Its production requires relatively little water, making it a preferred crop for water-stressed areas.
Objective of Global Millets?
The Government of India aims to make the International Year of Millets 2023 a mass movement for the overall benefit of farmers, consumers and the climate. To take this forward, the Government of India has adopted a multi-stakeholder collaborative approach to achieve the goals of IYM 2023 and establish India as the 'Global Hub of Millets'.
This includes farmers, start-ups, exporters, retail businesses, hotel associations and various government bodies in India and abroad. The year 2023 will provide a year-long campaign and several activities at the national and international levels to adopt and promote millets.
'Shri Anna' is not limited to farming or eating only, those who are familiar with the traditions of India also know that 'Shri' does not connect with anyone in our country just like that. Mr. Anna means the gateway to the prosperity of the small farmers of the country, the leader of the nutrition of crores of people of the country, the tribal society of the country is felicitated. Higher crop yield in less water, chemical-free farming on a large basis, is helpful in dealing with the challenges of climate change.
Approval of 72 countries on India's proposal
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on March 5, 2021 declared the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets. The proposal presented by the Government of India had the support of 72 countries. Through this announcement, UNGA aims to raise awareness about Nutriceuticals (Sri Anna) for food safety and nutrition, increase investment in R&D and extension, and motivate stakeholders to improve the productivity and quality of Sri Anna .
Characteristics of millets
- Bajra is mainly grown in 12-13 states in India. However, per capita domestic consumption in these states did not exceed 2-3 kg per month. Today it has increased to 14 kg per month.
- Climate resilience is the strength of millets. Millets are easily produced even in very adverse climatic conditions. Its yield also requires less water, due to which it is considered a favorite crop even for water-scarce places.