Millets National Media Portal
Millets National Media Portal
The CAU-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), South Garo Hills, under ICAR-ATARI Zone-VII, Umiam, celebrated World Millets Day at Chokpot with a special awareness programme highlighting the nutritional, health and agricultural importance of millets. The initiative focused on encouraging rural youth to understand the potential of millets while promoting scientific cultivation practices suitable for the region.
The programme brought together 48 rural youth from different villages across South Garo Hills. Participants were introduced to the role of millets in supporting nutritious diets, sustainable farming systems and livelihood opportunities. The programme also highlighted the importance of increasing awareness about these climate-resilient crops among younger generations in rural communities.
During the event, a publication titled “Importance of Millets” was released and distributed among the participants. The publication was authored by Athokpam Haribhushan, Principal Scientist and Head, and Rike Chelchak A Sangma, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy). It provides information on the nutritional and health benefits of millets while explaining their significance in promoting healthier diets and sustainable agricultural practices.
Addressing the participants, Haribhushan emphasised the importance of expanding the area under millet cultivation. He encouraged farmers and rural youth to adopt scientific cultivation techniques that can help improve crop productivity and contribute to better farm incomes. His address highlighted the potential of improved agricultural practices to strengthen millet production in the region.
The technical session was conducted by Sangma, who explained the different types of millets suitable for cultivation in South Garo Hills. Participants received information about their nutritional and health benefits as well as the complete package of practices required for successful cultivation under the district’s agro-climatic conditions.
Different varieties and types of millets were also displayed and demonstrated during the programme. The practical demonstration helped participants understand millet diversity, identification and potential utilisation while providing greater familiarity with the crops that can be promoted locally.
The World Millets Day programme concluded with an interactive session involving rural youth, KVK scientists and staff. Participants raised questions concerning millet cultivation, processing, value addition and marketing opportunities, which were addressed by the experts. Through awareness, technical guidance and practical demonstrations, the programme sought to encourage greater interest in millet cultivation and strengthen understanding of the role these nutritious crops can play in sustainable agriculture, rural livelihoods and healthier food systems in South Garo Hills.
© 2023 - 2026 Millets News. All rights reserved.
