NEWS WAVE INDIA: In a conference organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) on September 5, 2023, at Raajkutir, experts gathered to shed light on the significance of millets and the Prime Minister Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme. The conference aimed to promote and popularize millets, exploring the various government schemes that support the production of processed millet products.
Eminent dignitaries graced the event, including Smt. Anita Praveen, I.A.S., Union Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, Dr. Subrata Gupta, I.A.S., Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture, Government of West Bengal, Prof. Swapan Datta, Former Deputy Director General (Crop Science) ICAR & Ex-Vice Chancellor, Visva-Bharati University, and Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General, Indian Chamber of Commerce.
During his welcome address, Dr. Rajeev Singh emphasized the growing global movement to rebrand and position millets as a nutritious and sustainable food source. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recognized the multifaceted benefits of millets, from dietary balance to water conservation. Millets have gained international recognition, with initiatives like the Central Ministry of Food Processing Industry’s Millet Utsav events across India. The PMFME scheme is set to bolster the millet industry by supporting small-scale millet startups, ensuring a smooth supply chain, and encouraging the production of millet-based products.
Smt. Anita Praveen, I.A.S., Union Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, praised the success of millets in gaining global popularity, comparing their trajectory to that of yoga. She highlighted the government’s efforts, including the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which has attracted 30 companies. Plans for further PLI schemes for millet products are in the works. The focus is on promoting not only processed unhealthy foods but also healthy processed options.
Prof. Swapan Datta, Former Deputy Director General (Crop Science) ICAR & Ex-Vice Chancellor, Visva-Bharati University, stressed the global potential of millets, given their nutritional value and climate resilience. With 38% of India’s population suffering from malnutrition-related diseases, millets could make a significant impact. The millet market is projected to reach $11 billion, and India is a major contributor, producing 30-40% of the global millet output. Processing techniques have made millets more accessible, and government support aims to establish India as a global hub for millet production.
Dr. Subrata Gupta, I.A.S., Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture, Government of West Bengal, discussed the need for outreach and marketing to popularize millets. Drawing parallels with the acceptance of non-traditional vegetables like capsicum and mushrooms in Bengali cuisine, he emphasized the importance of introducing millet-based dishes during cultural events like Durga Puja. Millets, being gluten-free and nutritious, hold immense potential, and government support is aligned with small-scale millet processing units through the PMFME initiative.
The conference concluded with a shared commitment to raise awareness about millets, enhance their processing, and encourage widespread consumption, promoting a healthier and sustainable dietary choice.