Millets production and processing for nutritional security under the changing climate scenarios 

A Farmer Training Program on “Millet Production and Processing under Changing Climate Scenarios” sponsored by ATMA, Gaya, Bihar, was initiated at the ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna on September 16, 2024. The program was inaugurated by Dr. Anup Das, Director, ICAR-RCER, who lit the lamp followed by ICAR song.

Dr. Das emphasized the critical role of millet cultivation in the face of climate change, highlighting the resilience of millets to adverse weather conditions. He briefed about the nutritional benefits of millets, which are an excellent source of essential nutrients, and encouraged the farmers to integrate millets into their crop diversification strategies. Dr. Das also underscored the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural practices, such as zero tillage and conservation agriculture, to enhance the productivity and sustainability. Following this, Dr. Kamal Sarma, Head of the Division of Livestock and Fisheries Management (DLFM), emphasized the health benefits of millets. He pointed out their low glycemic index and other nutritional advantages, stressing the positive impact of millets on human health. Dr. N. Bhakta, Course Director provided a detailed overview of the training program. He discussed the significance of millet cultivation, particularly in the water-stressed regions of Gaya.

Later in the program, a discussion session was held where farmers shared the challenges they faced in millet cultivation. In response to their feedback, the course directors planned the training program to specifically address these issues and provide targeted solutions.

The training program was conducted by Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, Head of the Division of Crop Research (DCR); Dr. N. Bhakta; and Dr. Rakesh Kumar. They were supported by coordinators Dr. Santosh Kumar, Dr. Dhiraj Kumar Singh, Dr. P. K. Sundaram, Dr. Kumari Shubha and Dr. Abhishek Kumar Dubey. A total of twenty-six farmers from Gaya participated in the training.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Senior Scientist. Dr. Kumar expressed his heartfelt gratitude to participants and organizers for their contributions to the success of inaugural session.