Punjab's farmers revive forgotten millets as a climate-smart superfood

Farmers in Punjab and Haryana are turning back to millets, a crop once central to diets across Asia, Africa and the Americas. The shift comes as organisations like Kheti Virasat Mission push for sustainable farming, while the United Nations has declared 2023 the International Year of Millets to highlight their health and environmental benefits.

Millets were a dietary staple for centuries before wheat and rice took over around 50 to 60 years ago. These small, round grains grow naturally without pesticides, making them safer for soil and human health. They also need far less water than wheat and are gluten-free, with double the fibre content of whole wheat. Some varieties even show potential in reversing certain diseases.

The decline of millets in favour of wheat and rice has been linked to rising health problems. Now, farmers in northern India are reviving their cultivation, backed by groups like Kheti Virasat Mission. Meanwhile, companies such as Navilay Enterprises are working to boost millet consumption, aiming for a 'millet revolution' this year. Public interest in millets is growing, with the UN's 2023 campaign expected to strengthen this trend. The focus is on their nutritional value and ability to thrive in tough climates, offering a resilient alternative to traditional grains.

The push for millets is gaining momentum, from farm fields in Punjab to global awareness campaigns. With their low water needs, organic nature and health benefits, these grains could reshape diets and farming practices in the years ahead. The International Year of Millets is set to play a key role in this transition.