BHUBANESWAR: Union minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday lavished high praise on Odisha for its remarkable achievement in promotion of millets (Shree Anna) saying, the state has shown the direction to the nation.
Inaugurating the Mandia Dibasa (Millet Day) celebration at Lok Seva Bhawan in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Chouhan highlighted the state’s exemplary contribution to transforming India’s millet movement into a people’s mission. “Many have spoken about it but Odisha has truly brought this vision to the ground. I wholeheartedly congratulate the government of Odisha for this remarkable effort,” he said.
Exhorting agriculture scientists to focus on research and processing technologies to make it a profitable crop, Chouhan said, “Processing is the most crucial link in the millet value chain. I applaud Odisha for showing direction to the nation not only in millet promotion but also in purchasing Shree Anna at minimum support price. Odisha stands as an inspiring example,” he remarked.
Encouraging millet’s inclusion in nutrition schemes, the Union minister suggested that millets be integrated into mid-day meals for children and outlets should be opened in all government departments. He also appreciated the significant role of women farmers of the state.
Chouhan stressed that awareness about the nutritional and ecological value of millets must reach the people. “This cannot be achieved through speeches alone. We must engage directly with farmers and citizens, spread awareness about Shree Anna and strengthen millet-based livelihoods,” he added.
Welcoming the delegates, the chief minister said under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has witnessed the successful implementation of several agricultural schemes benefitting millions of farmers.
“Farming is the pillar of the state’s economy. Our farmers have advanced greatly under the guidance of the state government. Millets, rich in nutrients, are both healthy and tasty, and through the Millet Mission, Odisha’s small and women farmers are progressing rapidly,” Majhi added.
Deputy chief minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, director general of International Rice Research Institute Yvonne Pinto, former chief scientist of WHO and chairperson of MS Swaminathan Research Foundation Soumya Swaminathan, country director, World Food Programme Elisabeth Faure and principal secretary, Agriculture Arabinda Padhee were present.