Regional convention on Millets in NE ends
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 05 2024: The valedictory function of the "Regional Convention of North Eastern states on the Available Millets in North Eastern Region of Bharat and its Benefit in Nutrition, MDM, Anganwadis and Take Home Raashan" was held at the College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Iroisemba, Imphal on Tuesday.

The event was attended by CAU director of research Dr Lalita Mohan Garnayak, registrar Dr TR Sharma, dean of college of food technology Dr Ng Iboyaima, dean of College of Agriculture, Krydemkulai Dr Ram Singh, and dean of College of Agriculture, Iroisemba professor Indira Sarangthem.

Dr Lalita Mohan Garnayak high-lighted the role of millets in enhancing food and nutritional security, as well as the income of small-scale farmers.

He emphasised the vital contribution of millets to environmental sustainability and economic development within participating communities, suggesting the need for more training and demonstrations on millets.

Professor Indira Sarangthem emphasised the various benefits of including millets in our diet, especially for children, to mitigate malnutrition considering its high nutritional value.

Dr TR Sharma and Dr Ram Singh stressed the importance of promoting millets for increased production and consumption, with Dr Ram Singh also underlining the role of stakeholders in popularising millets.

Dr Ng Iboyaima, in his vote of thanks, highlighted the crucial role of agriculturalists and food technologists in raising awareness about the importance of millets.

The convention had participation of CDPOs, supervisors, Anganwadi workers, and ASHA workers, who provided valuable feedback and expressed their views.

Best stall awards were presented to Blue Ocean Academy in the private organisation category, while the College of Food Technology received the best stall award in the government organisation category.

The two-day convention witnessed participation from various departments and experts from across the country who shared their knowledge during technical sessions focusing on themes such as Millets in Public Distribution System and Mid - Day Meal to mitigate child malnutrition, Popularisation of Millets among Farmers of NE-India through Community Managed System, and People-centric Approaches in Millet-based Products of NE India.

The convention concluded with recommendations including the need for awareness and outreach programmes at the grassroots level, emphasis on developing palatable millet-based products, and creating market linkages to ensure easy availability and accessibility of millet-based food products.

CAU vice-chancellor Dr Anupam Mishra extended his blessings and best wishes to all participants and organisers.

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