Meghalaya’s Millet Revival Earns Prime Minister Modi’s Praise Nationwide

Meghalaya’s millet revival has received national recognition after Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the efforts of farmers and women entrepreneurs during the 139th episode of his popular radio programme, Mann Ki Baat. The initiative highlights how traditional millet cultivation is making a strong comeback in Meghalaya through innovation, entrepreneurship and value-added food products. The Prime Minister highlighted the remarkable efforts taking place in Khanduli village in West Jaintia Hills, where millets have been part of the local food culture for generations. However, millet cultivation had gradually declined over the years, creating a need to revive traditional farming practices and encourage farmers to grow these nutritious grains again.

Two women entrepreneurs, Darapbiang Mulieh and Daieidlangki Suchiang, have played an important role in bringing Meghalaya’s millet tradition back into the spotlight. They started developing innovative millet-based food products and creating market opportunities for locally cultivated finger millet. Under their brand, Darap & Daieid, they produce and market a variety of value-added products, including millet cookies, cakes, muffins and baby food. Their initiative demonstrates how traditional agricultural products can be transformed into attractive, marketable food options that appeal to modern consumers.

By purchasing millets directly from local farmers and converting them into finished food products, these women entrepreneurs have helped strengthen the connection between agriculture and food processing. Their business has increased the demand for locally grown millets, encouraging farmers to return to millet cultivation. This approach also highlights the importance of women-led entrepreneurship in rural development, agricultural innovation and local economic growth. Value addition is becoming an important strategy for improving the commercial potential of traditional crops while creating new opportunities for rural communities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also recognised the contribution of Chekjing Sangma, a farmer from Sadolpara village in West Garo Hills, who resumed millet cultivation by adopting modern farming methods. His efforts have helped improve agricultural income and create greater awareness about millet farming within the village. This example demonstrates how combining traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices can support sustainable farming and improve rural livelihoods.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for recognising the state's millet heritage and appreciating the contributions of farmers and women entrepreneurs. The state government remains committed to supporting farmers, strengthening rural livelihoods and working towards increasing farmers' income.

Meghalaya's millet revival represents an encouraging example of how traditional grains can contribute to India's agricultural transformation, rural entrepreneurship and food security. Millets such as finger millet are valued for their nutritional properties and adaptability to different farming conditions. Promoting millet-based products can create new business opportunities across food processing, packaging, distribution and retail sectors. The initiative also supports growing consumer interest in nutritious and traditional food choices. Through farmer participation, women-led businesses and government support, Meghalaya is demonstrating how millet cultivation can become an important part of sustainable rural development and India's expanding millet economy.

 

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