India is expanding international collaboration in millet research through a specialised training programme for African scientists under the Millets and Other Ancient Grains International Research Initiative (MAHARISHI). The three-month programme will be hosted at the Global Centre of Excellence on Millets, ICAR–Indian Institute of Millets Research (ICAR–IIMR), Hyderabad.

The initiative aims to strengthen Africa's scientific capabilities in developing climate-resilient and nutritionally improved millet varieties. Participating researchers will receive practical training in advanced breeding techniques, genomics, high-throughput genotyping, phenotyping, biofortification and technologies designed to accelerate crop improvement.

Beyond crop research, the programme will cover important aspects of the millet value chain, including agronomy, seed systems, post-harvest management, food processing, nutrition, food safety, entrepreneurship and market development.

Dr Mangi Lal Jat, Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, highlighted the importance of sharing India's agricultural research expertise with countries facing increasing challenges from drought, rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall.

AGRA President Alice Ruhweza also welcomed the initiative, emphasising the importance of strengthening scientific institutions and building research capabilities that can contribute to agricultural transformation across Africa.

The programme is tentatively scheduled from 1 December 2026 to 28 February 2027. Eligible applicants must be African citizens involved in millet-related research, hold a relevant PhD qualification and be 45 years old or younger.

Selected participants will receive full financial support under the approved programme provisions.

By connecting African scientists with India's millet research institutions, MAHARISHI aims to encourage knowledge exchange, strengthen agricultural innovation and accelerate the development of resilient food systems.