Introduction:

Millets are the excellent source of essential nutrients; they are also called as ‘nutritious cereals. The Indian Millets are nutritionally superior to wheat and rice as they are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are also gluten-free and have a low glycemic index, making them ideal for people with celiac disease or diabetes. India is the world's largest producer of millets with a share of 38.4% of world’s production (FAO, 2023).

Production:

Six states namely Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Haryana accounts for more than 83.22 per cent share in total millet production. Rajasthan contributes 29.86 per cent of the total millet production in India. Multiple varieties of millets such as Bajra (Pearl Millets), Jowar (Sorghum), Ragi (Finger Millet), Canary seeds, Buckwheat and Other Cereal. Pearl millet (Bajra) and Sorghum (Jowar) constitutes the largest share in India’s total production of millets.

Area:

Among all the states, Rajasthan has covered largest area under millets cultivation followed by, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The total area under millets in India during FY 24 as follows:

Exports:

Millets are exported to UAE, Saudi Arabia, Nepal, USA, Senegal, Germany, Japan etc. The Indian millets export realization was as follows: