Boudh, Odisha | 30 August:

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Boudh, under Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology, Bhubaneswar, observed World Millets Day at Amthapada Village, Boudh Block, Boudh District, with the participation of farmers and farm women.

The programme focused on improving awareness and practical understanding of millets as nutritious, climate-resilient and sustainable crops. It also provided a platform for interaction between farmers and scientists and for sharing field-level experiences.

The event was organised as part of the wider observance of World Millets Day on 30 August, following the call given by the Millets International Media Portal to millet organisations, institutions, farmers, communities and stakeholders to conduct meaningful activities that promote millets, nutrition and sustainable agriculture.

During the programme, participants discussed the importance of millets in nutrition, household food security and diversified diets. Awareness was also created on improved millet production practices, quality seed, intercultural operations, crop management, soil health and low-input farming.

A special interaction was held with farm women on millet-based food preparation, household nutrition and opportunities for value addition. Participants were also encouraged to promote local seed conservation, collective learning and wider inclusion of millets in farming systems.

The key message of the programme was:

“Millets for Farmers • Millets for Nutrition • Millets for Research • Millets for Sustainability.”

The programme helped strengthen awareness among farmers and farm women about the nutritional, economic and ecological importance of millets. It also strengthened the connection between the farming community and KVK Boudh for future technical guidance, demonstrations and capacity-building activities.

The celebration at Amthapada reflects the growing grassroots response to the call for World Millets Day, taking the message of millets directly to farming communities.