Farming for the future: Community-led sustainable initiatives through millet bank

Introduction

Millets are among the earliest domesticated cereal crops known to humankind, with archaeological evidence tracing their cultivation back to approximately 8000 B.C. These smallseeded grasses have historically played a crucial role in sustaining human populations, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions across Asia and Africa. Millets serve as an important source of dietary energy, protein, and essential micronutrients, especially for resource-poor communities. The major millets include sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), and finger millet (Eleusine coracana), while minor millets comprise foxtail millet, proso millet, kodo millet, barnyard millet, and little millet (Kumari et al., 2023) [28] . In the Indian context, millets have been cultivated for centuries due to their nutritional richness, adaptability to marginal environments, and low input requirements. These crops are highly resilient to climatic variability, requiring significantly less water compared to major cereals such as rice and wheat, and are capable of thriving in degraded soils. Despite these advantages, millet cultivation has witnessed a substantial decline since the 1980s. This decline is largely attributed to the Green Revolution, which prioritized high-yielding varieties of rice and wheat supported by irrigation infrastructure, subsidies, and procurement policies. Consequently, farmers shifted toward these crops due to higher economic returns and assured market access, resulting in the marginalization of millets in both production and consumption systems (Government of India [GOI], 2025; FAO, 2024). Recent data indicate a structural transformation in millet production systems in India. As per the third advance estimates for 2024-25, India achieved a total millet production of approximately 180.15 lakh tonnes (18.01 million tonnes), reflecting an increase compared to previous years.

At the global level, India continues to dominate millet production, contributing around 40% of global output, thereby maintaining its position as the largest producer worldwide. However, despite this leadership, fluctuations in yield and area persist. For instance, recent estimates suggest that millet production declined slightly to around 11.57 million tonnes in 2024-25 due to yield variations, even though the cultivated area remained relatively stable at around 9.2 million hectares. This indicates that productivity, rather than area expansion, is the key determinant of production trends. In addition to production dynamics, millet exports have shown a steady upward trajectory in recent years. India exported approximately 146,300 metric tonnes of millets valued at USD 70.89 million in 2023-24, reflecting increasing global demand for nutritious and sustainable food products. Earlier data also indicate that exports reached about USD 75 million in 2022-23, demonstrating consistent growth in international markets. The global demand for millets is being driven by rising consumer awareness regarding gluten-free diets, functional foods, and plant-based nutrition. Furthermore, government initiatives aimed at expanding export markets, promoting value-added millet products, and enhancing branding have contributed to strengthening India's position in the global millet trade. Recognizing the multifaceted importance of millets, the Government of India has undertaken several strategic initiatives to revive their cultivation and consumption. In 2018, millets were rebranded as "Nutri-cereals" to emphasize their nutritional superiority, and the year was declared the National Year of Millets. Building upon this initiative, India successfully proposed the designation of 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM), which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly to promote global awareness and consumption. Continuing this momentum, the Union Budget 2024-25 recognized millets as "Shree Anna" (superfood), highlighting their importance in ensuring nutritional security, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture (Ministry of Finance, 2024). From an environmental perspective, millets are increasingly being recognized as climate-smart crops. They are droughtresistant, require minimal external inputs, and have a lower carbon and water footprint compared to conventional cereals. Their ability to adapt to extreme climatic conditions makes them particularly relevant in the context of climate change and resource scarcity. As global agricultural systems face increasing pressure from environmental degradation and population growth, millets offer a viable pathway toward sustainable and resilient food systems (FAO, 2024). Moreover, millets contribute significantly to achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), climate action (SDG 13), and responsible consumption and production (SDG 12). Their integration into food systems can enhance nutritional outcomes, improve farmer livelihoods, and promote environmental sustainability. In conclusion, the renewed emphasis on millets reflects a paradigm shift toward sustainable and nutrition-sensitive agriculture. The convergence of policy support, market demand, and technological advancements has created new opportunities for the millet sector. India, with its strong production base and policy backing, is well-positioned to lead the global millet movement and emerge as a hub for millet production, processing, and export in the coming decades.

Trade in millets: National and global scenario (2025 update)

The millet sector in 2025 reflects a significant transition from a traditionally neglected crop to a strategically important component of sustainable agriculture and global food systems. Historically, millets occupied a prominent position in the Indian food basket; however, the post-Green Revolution period led to a marked decline in their cultivation and consumption due to policy support favouring rice and wheat. This structural shift resulted in a substantial reduction in the area under millets, although recent years have witnessed a revival driven by increased awareness of their nutritional benefits, climate resilience, and policy interventions. In 2025, millets are increasingly recognized as "future smart foods," aligning with global priorities of sustainability, food security, and nutrition (FAO, 2025). India continues to maintain its position as the largest producer of millets globally, accounting for approximately 40-44% of total world production, followed by countries such as China and Niger (FAO, 2025; USDA, 2025). According to the Fourth Advance Estimates for 2024-25 released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the total area under millet cultivation in India is estimated at around 9.5 million hectares, with production ranging between 18.2 and 18.8 million tonnes and an average yield of approximately 1200-1250 kg per hectare (Government of India [GOI], 2025). These figures indicate that although the area under millet cultivation has declined compared to earlier decades, production levels have remained relatively stable due to improvements in yield. This reflects a transition toward a productivity-driven production system supported by improved seed varieties, better agronomic practices, and targeted government interventions. The spatial distribution of millet cultivation in India remains highly concentrated in dryland and semi-arid regions. Rajasthan continues to dominate both area and production, contributing nearly 35% of the total cultivated area and around 27% of national production. Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh also play significant roles, together accounting for a substantial share of millet output (GOI, 2025). Crop-wise analysis indicates that pearl millet (bajra) constitutes the largest share of production, contributing nearly 45-48%, followed by sorghum (jowar) at around 20-22%, finger millet (ragi) at 12-14%, and small millets contributing approximately 16-18% (GOI, 2025). The predominance of pearl millet is largely due to its adaptability to arid climatic conditions, while the increasing share of small millets reflects growing demand driven by health and nutrition awareness. Despite the overall stability in production, millet cultivation in India continues to be largely dependent on rainfed agriculture. The irrigated area under major millets such as jowar and bajra remains limited to approximately 11-15%, indicating significant scope for productivity enhancement through improved irrigation infrastructure and water management practices (FAO, 2025; GOI, 2025). The limited irrigation coverage highlights the inherent resilience of millets, which can thrive under low-input conditions, but also points to untapped potential for yield improvement. At the global level, millet production remains concentrated in Asia and Africa, with India holding a dominant position. China contributes approximately 9% of global production, while countries such as Niger and Nigeria play significant roles in African production systems (FAO, 2025; USDA, 2025). The global millet market has shown steady expansion, with its size estimated at around USD 14-15 billion in 2025. This growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for gluten-free, organic, and nutrient-rich food products, as well as the rising popularity of plant-based diets and functional foods (FAO, 2025). Millets are increasingly being incorporated into value-added products such as ready-to-eat foods, breakfast cereals, and health snacks, thereby enhancing their commercial significance. India's performance in the global millet trade has also improved in recent years, although it remains below its full potential. According to the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India's millet exports in 2024-25 are estimated at approximately 150,000 metric tonnes, with a total export value ranging between USD 75 and 80 million (APEDA, 2025). The major export destinations include the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Nepal, and Japan, reflecting a growing international demand for Indian millets. The upward trend in exports is largely attributed to increased global awareness following the International Year of Millets and government efforts to promote millet-based products in international markets (APEDA, 2025; DGCIS, 2025). The expansion of millet trade in 2025 is influenced by multiple interconnected factors. Government initiatives such as the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and various state-level millet missions have played a crucial role in enhancing production and promoting value addition. At the same time, rising health consciousness among consumers has significantly increased demand for millets due to their low glycaemic index, high fiber content, and rich micronutrient profile. Additionally, global recognition of millets as climate-resilient crops has strengthened their position in sustainable food systems, further driving demand in international markets (GOI, 2025; FAO, 2025). Overall, the 2025 scenario indicates a structural transformation in the millet sector characterized by production stability despite declining area, increasing domestic and global demand, and expanding trade opportunities. The shift from subsistenceoriented cultivation to market-driven production highlights the evolving role of millets in the agricultural economy. With continued policy support, technological innovation, and market development, millets are poised to emerge as a key component of sustainable agriculture and global food trade.

Millets to achieve SDGs on pathway

Millets are increasingly recognized as key crops for achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to their nutritional, economic, and environmental benefits. In the context of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), millets enhance food and nutritional security in rainfed and marginal regions by providing a resilient and nutrient-rich food source (Kumari et al., 2023; FAO, 2025) [28, 16] . Their high fiber, mineral content, and low glycemic index contribute to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by supporting the prevention of non-communicable diseases (Anitha et al., 2024). Furthermore, millets promote SDG 8 (Economic Growth) by generating income opportunities for smallholder farmers through value addition and market expansion. Their low input requirements and adaptability support SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by reducing environmental stress and enhancing resilience to climate variability. Overall, millets represent a sustainable pathway for achieving integrated development goals.

Importance Of Millets Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Crop

Millets are widely recognized as climate-resilient crops capable of supporting sustainable agriculture under changing environmental conditions. Their ability to grow in arid and semiarid regions with minimal water and input requirements makes them suitable for rainfed farming systems. Recent studies highlight that millets can tolerate extreme temperatures and poor soil conditions, making them a viable solution for climate adaptation and sustainable food production (Kumar et al., 2025; FAO, 2025) [27,16] . Their deep root systems and efficient wateruse capacity enhance resilience against drought and environmental stress.

Nutritional Superiority and Health Benefits

Millets are considered "nutri-cereals" due to their high nutritional composition, including complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, proteins, and essential micronutrients such as calcium, iron, and zinc. Recent research indicates that millets have a low glycaemic index and high antioxidant content, which contribute to improved glycaemic control, cardiovascular health, and weight management. Additionally, millets contain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids that exhibit antiinflammatory and anti-diabetic properties, making them effective in preventing lifestyle diseases.

Role in Food and Nutritional Security

Millets play a crucial role in enhancing food and nutritional security, particularly in developing regions. Their ability to produce stable yields under adverse climatic conditions ensures food availability for vulnerable populations. Recent studies emphasize that millet-based diets improve dietary diversity and nutritional outcomes, especially in regions affected by climate variability and food insecurity (Gbegbelegbe et al., 2025; FAO, 2025) [19,16] . Their integration into food systems helps reduce dependency on major cereals such as rice and wheat.

Economic Importance and Livelihood Support

Millets provide significant economic benefits by supporting smallholder farmers and rural livelihoods. The increasing demand for millet-based products in global markets has enhanced their commercial potential. Research shows that value addition, processing, and marketing of millet-based foods contribute to income generation and rural employment (Rai et al., 2025) [35] . Moreover, the expansion of millet value chains and agri-entrepreneurship has strengthened economic resilience in rural areas.

Environmental and Ecological Benefits

Millets contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the ecological footprint of agriculture. Their low water requirement, minimal dependence on chemical inputs, and ability to grow in degraded soils help conserve natural resources and promote biodiversity. Studies indicate that millets also contribute to carbon sequestration and soil health improvement, thereby supporting climate change mitigation efforts. Their cultivation results in lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional cereals.

Strategies for Millet Conservation

Selective utilization of specific crops and varieties in these modern days has threatened the agro-biodiversity leading to the loss of many potential landraces and subsequently affecting the nutritional security of the people. The only way to conserve the millet landraces is to bring them into use and build a viable ecosystem around them. Odisha Millets Mission is taking the lead in the conservation of millets by involving farmers. The strategies to conserve the millet landraces are by following the 4 C's as follows:

1. Conservation: The strategies for the conservation of millets involve seed collection, multiplication, seed distribution, farmer-to-farmer seed exchange, and conducting Participatory varietal trials (PVT) involving farmers, especially women farmers. The promising potential landraces are collected from the locality or nearby places.

The seeds are properly cleaned, dried, and stored in the Community Seed Centres. On the arrival of the monsoon season, the seeds are distributed to the farmers in the community. The farmers are selected based on their interest to do seed multiplication. The farmers are properly made aware of the millet seeds in the community gathering. A proper register is maintained for the seed distribution.

Cultivation:

From the year 2017-18, farmers started following the System of Millets Intensification (SMI), Line Transplanting/Line Sowing, where it was a marked significant increase in the yield of millets. Farmers reported getting yields of 8-12 quintals/acre. Happy moments were seen among the millet farmers when they received incentives for following the best agronomic practices. These initiatives of Odisha Millets Mission encouraged farmers to grow more millets in their fields.

Consumption:

To address the issue of reduced millet consumption due to the labour-intensive processing methods, the Odisha Millets Mission has undertaken several proactive initiatives. They have provided OUAT Ragi Threshers to Women Self-Help Groups (WSHGs), which streamlines the millet threshing process, reducing the time and effort required. Additionally, the distribution of pulverizers to produce millet flour efficiently has further eased the accessibility and use of millets in various recipes.

Commercialisation:

The millet ecosystem cannot sustain for a long time until a business is created. In view of this, the WSHGs are trained in processing millets and making value-added products. On convergence, Odisha Millets Mission is associated with Mission Shakti Department. The value-added products are branded in the name of ''Millet Shakti". The millet products are in much demand in the state as well as in other states. Now, the Women's Self-help Groups are making a good business out of millet products (Roy, 2022) [37] .

Ex-situ conservation

The ex-situ conservation widely used method to conserve millet genetic resources. Globally >29,000 accessions of proso millet, >8,000 accessions each of barnyard and kodo millets, and >3,000 accessions of little millet have been assembled and conserved. The major gene banks conserving proso, barnyard, kodo, and little millets. The major collections of proso millet germplasm accessions are assembled in the Russian Federation, China, Ukraine and India; barnyard millet in Japan and India; kodo millet in India and USA; and little millet in India. (Upadhyaya et al., 2016).

In-situ Conservation (On farm conservation practice)

The in-situ conservation practice followed by farmers and among the best method is System of Millets Intensification (SMI) in finger millets enhanced productivity.

SMI in Finger Millet

SMI stands for System of Millets Intensification. This method of agronomic practice is to enhance productivity and to increase the production in millets. Now, SMI in Finger Millet is practiced by most of the farmers in Odisha under the Odisha Millet Mission. This practice is getting popular in the farmer field because it is giving promising yield as compared to the traditional method.

Package of practices in SMI 1. Land Preparation:

The land should be well ploughed in the month of June after the first shower of rain. This method is suitable for cultivation in medium land. It must be ensured that no water remain stagnant in the field for long period.

Selection of seed:

It is always recommended to select a variety which is more suitable for that particular area. There are some promising local varieties that farmers are still cultivating. In the era of Research and Development, there are many high yielding which is accepted by the farming community. popular Finger Millet cultivars giving excellent yield like GPU-28, GPU-48, GPU-66, GPU-67, and KMR-204.

Seed Rate for SMI:

In Traditional/Conventional method we generally require 4 kg of seeds per acre but in SMI method we need only 300-400 gm per acre. Farmers can definitely save seeds by this method. 4. Seed Treatment: It can be done in a chemical or organic way. organic way as it costs lesser and resources easily available with the farmers. Treating with Bijamrita is well accepted by the farmers. 5. Raising of Seed Bed: Generally, fourty square meters of the area is required for transplanting a one-acre area. The bed should be raised up to a height of 6 inches. In the rope, marker lines are marked with a Khurpi or a stick. After the treated seeds are completely dried it is mixed with sand and spread in the grove of the marked lines. The fine-tuned powder form of FYM or Vermi-compost is used to cover the sown seeds in the bed.

Preparation of Main Field

The main field is well ploughed with tractor and 30 quintals of FYM is spread over 1 acre of land. Plough at least 2 times before transplanting of finger millet.

Transplanting

The duration of 15-20 day seedlings are best for transplanting. The seedlings should not be uprooted as we do in rice rather use a spade. Take out the seedlings along with the soil and ensure that roots are not broken. Line marking is made at 10 inches from line to line and plant to plant with an iron or wooden marker. Making lines with a marker will create a ridge and furrow. A rope is used for marking the distance of plant to plant. Compost or ash is put 10 inches apart and seedlings are placed on this mark. Seedlings are planted slightly covering it with the soil.

Weeding

Weeding is an important intercultural operation to be carried out in SMI. It is done after 15 days of transplanting by a cycle weeder. Totally, three time of weeding is recommended at 15 day frequent intervals.

Log Rolling

A log of 8-10 feet long is tied with a rope on both ends and it is pulled over the finger millet plants on 25-30 after planting. It is pulled only in one direction. This operation bends the plant and gives a shock so that more tillering occurs (OMM, 2023).

Millet promotional activity

Government Initiative for Millet Promotion Table 4: Different Millets Mission Schemes in Various States

State Missions States Description

Bhavantar Bharpayee Yojana Haryana

It is a one-of-a-kind Haryana Government Scheme designed to compensate horticulture farmers for the low price of their produce. The Scheme has been expanded to the Bajra crop beginning with the Kharif season of 2021 in order to help millet producers in the state.

Millet Mission Chhattisgarh

In September 2021, the Chhattisgarh government announced Mission Millet Chhattisgarh in an effort to establish the state as India's millet hub. With a total budgetary allocation of US$ 20.71 million (Rs. 170 crore) and an input grant of US$ 109.65 (Rs. 9000) per hectare, its main goal is to promote the growth of Kodo millet, small millet, and finger millet in the State.

Drought Mitigation Project (APDMP) Andhra Pradesh

This programme is supported by IFAD and GoAP, a systematic and coordinated effort to address the general issue of persistent drought, enhance the incomes of 95,000 agricultural households, and strengthen their drought resistance. The project aims to improve agricultural productivity and adaptability in the 315 drought-prone gramme panchayats in the worst-affected 105 blocks of the southern AP districts of Ananthapuramu, Chittoor, Kadapa, Kurnool (the Rayalaseema region), and Prakasam.

Procurement and Processing for Value Addition of Millets

Uttarakhand Under the State Millet Mission and in accordance with the State Department of Agriculture, Uttarakhand State

Co-operative Federation Ltd. (UCF) has set a goal of acquiring Finger Millet (Mandua) and Barnyard Millet (Jhingora), in addition to establishing and constructing a Multi-Grain Processing Facility for primary and secondary processing of traditional small millet varieties.

Organic Production and Certification of Millets

Uttarakhand Farmers in the state's hilly regions primarily cultivate native crops such as finger millet, barnyard millet, amaranthus, and so on. According to the State Government, organic cultivation and certification of millets are done through centrally sponsored programmes like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) in 1,657 clusters (33,140 hectare), Rashtriya Krishni Vikas Yojana (RKVY)-Organic Programme in 70,240 hectares, and Namami Gange Programme in 620 cluster (12,400 hectare).

Promoting Kodo and Little Millets

Under the Centre's Nutri Cereal Sponsored Scheme, Madhya Pradesh is promoting millets, especially Kodo and Little millet. A non-profit organisation called Action for Social Advancement (ASA) has identified 30-40 villages in the tribal districts of Mandla and Dindori for millet promotion.

Millets Mission Tamil Nadu

The National Agriculture Development Programme (NADP)'s Tamil Nadu Millet Mission was established in 2014-15 with the goal of reviving the cultivation of forgotten millets by providing incentives for their production and distribution, setting up frontline demonstrations, and training farmers in farming millets and its value-added products.

Millets Mission and SHG Mission Shakti Odisha

Odisha Millet Mission (OMM), a special programme the state government of Odisha launched in 2017 with the goal of promoting millets in tribal areas that aims to revive millets on farms and plates while simultaneously foccon production, processing, consumption, marketing, and inclusion of millets in government initiatives. One of the primary initiatives to encourage millet consumption has been the convergence of Odisha Millets Mission and SHG Mission Shakti, in order to produce creative recipes, as well as train SHG women.

Mechanized Processing helps Revive Confidence in Millets

Ecosystems in Odisha: Solar-powered millet dehusking unit by NIRMAN (NGOs) in the Dupi village of Kandhamal district (Odisha) helps reduce considerably the drudgery associated with traditional milling of millets by tribal women, thus enabling them to invest their labour & time for some other jobs. This has also revived the confidence in traditional millet cultivation.

Improved Method of Milling Small Millets: Small millets like foxtail, little, Kodo etc are decorticated to produce Bhagar. Multi-pass dehulling system was replaced by introducing Impact dehuller.

Role of IIMR

The Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Hyderabad play a pivotal role in promoting millets research on a national level and is actively engaged in the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on pearl millet and small millets. Furthermore, IIMR establishes valuable linkages with both national and international agencies. The institute's primary mandate encompasses strategic research to enhance the diversified utilisation of millets, as well as coordination and development of millet-related initiatives. The IIMR also contributes significantly to crop production and protection in the millet sector while providing training and consultancy services. In terms of achievements in sorghum research, IIMR has developed 35 sorghum hybrids and 32 sorghum varieties. Additionally, they have made significant contributions to AICRP, with one sweet sorghum hybrid, two sweet sorghum varieties, three single-cut forage varieties, and two multi-cut hybrids. Furthermore, the institute has played a crucial role in the development of 175 state varieties used by various State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), resulting in substantial increases in Kharif and rabi sorghum production, with yields reaching 93.0% and 80%, respectively (IIMR, 2023).

ICAR initiative

Throughout the year, various events and initiatives have been instrumental in promoting millets and their significance in different regions of India. [36] .

Seed Systems and Farmer Innovations

NGOs have strengthened local seed systems through participatory varietal trials, seed village programs, and community seed banks. These efforts ensure the availability of quality seeds while conserving traditional landraces. Farmer innovations, such as improved spacing and local agronomic adaptations, are encouraged, enhancing productivity and sustainability (Kumar et al., 2024) [25] .

Processing, Consumption, and Awareness

To address post-harvest challenges, NGOs have introduced millet threshers, cleaners, and processing units through women self-help groups (SHGs). These interventions reduce drudgery, improve processing efficiency, and promote millet consumption. Nutrition awareness programs, food festivals, and integration into public food systems have further increased acceptance and demand for millet-based foods (Das et al., 2025) [11] .

Market Linkages and Income Enhancement NGO interventions have strengthened market linkages through Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs), enabling aggregation, value addition, branding, and direct marketing. Farmers benefit from Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanisms and improved access to markets, resulting in increased income ranging from ₹12,000 to ₹15,000 per acre. Approximately 65% of farmers have started marketing surplus produce, reflecting improved economic outcomes (AESA, 2023) [1] . [36,38] .

Ministry of

Challenges Processing and Shelf-Life Constraints

Millets require multiple processing stages to become edible, which poses challenges in maintaining efficiency while preserving nutritional quality. Improper processing can lead to nutrient loss, while inadequate processing affects palatability and consumer acceptance. Additionally, millets have a limited shelf life due to enzyme activity and lipid oxidation, leading to rancidity and reduced product quality. These constraints necessitate improved processing technologies and storage systems to enhance shelf stability and consumer appeal (Chand & Thapak, 2023; Kumar et al., 2024) [10,25] .

Decentralized Processing and Technological Gaps

The diversity in millet grain characteristics and regional variations makes standardized processing difficult. Decentralized processing systems are essential to accommodate these variations and ensure better grain recovery. However, limited access to modern processing technologies and infrastructure remains a major bottleneck, particularly for smallscale producers. Bridging this technological gap through innovation and capacity building is crucial for improving efficiency and quality (Rao et al., 2024) [36] .

Market Linkages and Consumer Awareness

Weak market linkages and inconsistent supply-demand dynamics hinder the commercialization of millets. Limited availability of high-yielding varieties, inadequate distribution networks, and low consumer awareness further restrict market expansion. The perception of millets as a "poor man's food" continues to affect their acceptance despite their nutritional advantages. Strengthening value chains, improving market intelligence, and promoting awareness are essential for enhancing market penetration (Chand & Thapak, 2023) [10] .

Way Forward: Policy and Value Chain Strengthening

A comprehensive approach is required to address these challenges, including increased public support for millet farmers, especially in dryland and hilly regions. Integrating millets into public distribution systems and nutrition programs can enhance accessibility and demand. Improving affordability through subsidies and market interventions is also critical. Furthermore, promoting value-added products and strengthening collaboration among farmers, processors, and marketers can ensure a stable supply chain and better price realization (Yadav & Dhiman, 2023) [42] .

Future Recommendations and Technological Innovations

Technological advancements such as improved seed varieties, hybrid development, and precision farming can significantly enhance millet productivity. Innovations in processing, including milling and extrusion technologies, can improve product quality and shelf life. Additionally, promoting entrepreneurship, skill development, and business incubation in millet-based industries can expand market opportunities. Branding millets as functional and health foods, along with targeted awareness campaigns, will further drive consumption and integration into mainstream diets (NAAS, 2022; Kumar et al., 2024) [33,25] .

Conclusion

The "Farming for the Future" is a community-led-sustainable initiative that harnesses the power of a millet bank to promote resilience, food security, and environmental sustainability. By engaging local farmers, preserving traditional millet varieties, and facilitating knowledge sharing, this initiative not only supports the livelihoods of communities but also contributes to the broader goals of biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. Through initiatives like these, we can envision a future where sustainable farming practices and community collaboration pave the way for a more food-secure, ecologically balanced, and prosperous world.

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