1. Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Inaugurates International Millets Convention.
2. International Convention on Millets (ICM) 2023: A Milestone in Millets Revival.
3. National and International Delegates Converge in Bhubaneswar.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 09: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the first-ever two-day International Convention on Millets (ICM) 2023 at Janta Maidan in Bhubaneswar. This convention, attended by national and international representatives and senior administrators, marks a pivotal moment in the recognition and revival of millet as a sustainable food source.
The theme of the International Convention on Millets is “Millets – Ancient Grains for Modern Challenges.” It encompasses a wide range of activities, including farmer engagement initiatives, exhibitions of emerging technologies and farm machinery, experiential centers, technical sessions, policy roundtable discussions, business-to-business meetings, an international food festival, quiz competitions, cooking contests, and more.
The ICM will also highlight the tribal heritage of millets and present success stories of millet entrepreneurship by Mission Shakti groups.
Also Read: Arunachal Police’s Bold Plan to Tackle the State’s Drug Menace
A notable highlight of ICM 2023 was the presence of Grammy Award winner Ricky Kej and renowned Michelin Chef Vikas Khanna, adding a touch of glamour and culinary expertise to the event.
The primary objective of the International Convention on Millets is to reassess the efforts and strategies of various stakeholders to formulate a comprehensive roadmap for millets in the future. Additionally, it will provide a platform to showcase Odisha’s tribal culture and heritage. The convention will also facilitate discussions on policy reforms and investment opportunities within the millet ecosystem.
#Odisha is hosting the first ever #InternationalConventionOnMillets in #Bhubaneswar. The 2-day event will showcase #OdishaMilletsMission’s pioneering efforts in promoting the indigenous cereal crops and bring millets from farm to plates for a healthier, prosperous and sustainable… pic.twitter.com/xD5dGgjNgB
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) November 9, 2023
CM Naveen emphasized the significance of millets as traditional grains that are resilient in the face of climate challenges and rich in nutritional value.
He highlighted their potential role in achieving nutritional security, noting that the United Nations has designated 2023 as the International Year for Millets. Odisha has taken the lead in organizing this international convention involving all relevant stakeholders.
Patnaik further underlined the state’s commitment to millet cultivation, pointing out that they launched the millet mission in Odisha in 2017.
To encourage millet production, the government has increased direct benefit transfers to farmers and assured millet procurement. The Odisha government is also making a substantial investment of Rs 2500 crore to provide income and livelihood support to farmers.
Speaking about the Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the Chief Minister expressed his admiration for the women’s SHGs and their significant role in the millet value chain. These groups have demonstrated how millet-based enterprises can both appeal to consumers’ taste buds and enhance livelihoods, making them vital contributors to the promotion of millets.
