Subject: Economy

Climate variability and nutritional security concerns have significantly influenced India's cropping patterns, shifting focus from traditional cereals to climate-resilient and nutritious alternatives like millets.

Changes in Cropping Patterns

• Climate-Induced Shifts: Due to erratic rainfall patterns and rising temperatures, farmers are adapting by moving away from water-intensive crops towards drought-resistant varieties.

• Food Security Concerns: The reduced yields and declining nutritional quality, particularly in rice and wheat, have necessitated diversification of crop choices.

• Policy Interventions: Government initiatives promoting crop diversification have led to increased cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and millets in traditionally rice-wheat dominated regions.

Emphasis on Millet Production

• Production Leadership: India has emerged as the world's largest millet producer, contributing 38% of global production with 17.25 million metric tons in 2023.

• Production Linked Incentive Scheme: The PLISMBP launched with an outlay of Rs. 800 crore (2022-2027) promotes:

  • Value addition in millet-based products.
  • Development of branded ready-to-eat products.
  • Domestic sourcing of ingredients.

• International Recognition: The International Year of Millets 2023, spearheaded by India and FAO, highlighted:

  • Nutritional benefits of millets.
  • Environmental sustainability.
  • Global outreach to over 200 million people.

Promoting Millet Consumption

• Nutritional Security: Millets are being promoted as:

  • Climate-resilient superfoods.
  • Source of essential nutrients.
  • Alternative to traditional cereals.

• Market Development: Initiatives focus on:

  • Creating consumer awareness.
  • Developing value-added products.
  • Establishing market linkages.

India's emphasis on millet cultivation represents a strategic shift towards climate-smart agriculture and nutritional security. The success of initiatives like IYM 2023 and PLISMBP demonstrates the potential of millets in transforming agricultural landscapes and ensuring sustainable food systems.