Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Congratulates Agriculture Department for Millet Promotion Award

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 3: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has congratulated the state agriculture department for receiving a prestigious certificate of appreciation for its exceptional work in promoting millets during the International Year of Millets-2023 (IYOM-2023). The award was given by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the award was a result of the department’s efforts in promoting millets, building momentum for these ancient grains, and raising awareness about their immense nutritional, economic, and ecological benefits. The state government is promoting millet cultivation on a large scale and educating people about their health benefits.

A spokesperson from the Agriculture Department stated that 2023 was designated as the International Year of Millets to highlight their benefits, including nutrition, health, environmental sustainability, and economic development. Millets are affordable, nutrient-rich, and can thrive in diverse, adverse climates with minimal inputs.

To promote millet cultivation, the Agriculture Department organized various activities such as millet-based camps, fairs, festivals, and exhibitions. They provided technological inputs and established market linkages to motivate farmers. Key initiatives included distributing seeds and mini kits, training programs, and farm gate sales of millet products. Informative literature on millet cultivation and recipes was also distributed.

As a result, millet crops were cultivated across all districts of the state, covering an area of 1,526 hectares with a total production of 983 metric tonnes. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare recognized these efforts and awarded the department.

Agriculture Minister Prof. Chander Kumar commended the farmers for their dedication to millet cultivation. Secretary of Agriculture, C. Paulrasu, and Director of Agriculture, Kumad Singh, encouraged the farming community to continue enhancing millet production, focusing on varieties like Finger Millet, Kodo Millet, Foxtail Millet, Barnyard Millet, and Little Millet.