The year 2023 is filled with numerous events at the state and national levels celebrating the international year of Millet. The United Nations has selected this year to raise awareness of the multiple benefits of millet, from nutrition and health to environmental sustainability and economic development.

India is the largest producer of millet in the world, it accounts for 20 % of global production and 80% of Asia’s production. Prime Minister Modi is also promoting millet through the Millet Mission which promotes the production and consumption of millet in the country.

India is home to different types of millets including Pearl Millets, Finger Millets, and Sorghum and other minor Millets such as Foxtail, Barnyard, and Poroso which are grown as traditional crops and was accounted for about a third of India’s food basket. Unfortunately, there is a decline in its production. According to some, the Green Revolution has reduced the importance of Millet in farms and plates and eliminated food diversity.

Caritas India Sanjivani program also works towards securing food and nutrition security for small and marginal farmers and landless farm-dependent households in Gujarat. It promotes the diversification and maximization of food crops and the realization of rights and entitlements. The program has put special emphasis on the promotion of traditional food crop cultivation instead of cash crops and other crops that are capital intensive, use organic manure, and integrated pest management.

To commemorate the International Year of Millet 2023, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK)- Dediapada has identified 290 women lead farmers from 10 project villages of Sanjivani in Dediapada block of Narmada district in Gujarat to take lead role in Millet cultivation during this Monson season. These women-lead farmers collectively received 40 kgs of Millet crop seeds, 20 kg each of Nagli and Varai crops.

The decision to empower women farmers is rooted in the understanding that they play a pivotal role in food production, processing, and consumption within households. By actively involving women in millet cultivation, KVK hopes to foster their entrepreneurial spirit, enhance their income-generating capabilities, and empower them as change agents within their communities.

“We have accepted the challenges of cultivating millet this monsoon season and will add more women-lead farmers next year to cultivate Millets,” says the women-lead farmers.

The selection of women farmers as ambassadors of millet cultivation not only empowers them but also serves as a catalyst for social change. It challenges gender stereotypes and highlights the crucial role women play in agriculture and sustainable development. By harnessing the potential of women farmers, this initiative not only contributes to their empowerment but also paves the way for a more sustainable and nutritious future.

The selection of women farmers as ambassadors of millet cultivation not only empowers them but also serves as a catalyst for social change. It challenges gender stereotypes and highlights the crucial role women play in agriculture and sustainable development.