Answer: Millets are a diverse group of small-seeded cereal grains belonging to the grass family (Poaceae). They are highly adaptable and require significantly less water than many other common cereals like rice and wheat, making them well-suited for drier regions. With water scarcity becoming a looming threat across India, especially in regions like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, the need for sustainable and water-efficient crops is paramount. In this context, millets emerge as a promising alternative to highly water-intensive crops like rice and wheat.

Potential of millets as a viable alternative to water-intensive crops:

• Low Water Footprint: Compared to rice, which requires 2500-3000 liters of water per kg, millets like pearl millet and finger millet need only 800-1000 liters. This significant reduction translates to substantial water savings, particularly in drought-prone areas.
• For example- In Andhra Pradesh, farmers have successfully switched to ragi (finger millet) cultivation, experiencing water savings of over 50% while maintaining comparable yields.
• Drought Tolerance: Millets possess deep root systems, allowing them to access moisture from deeper soil layers and withstand dry spells with greater resilience. This adaptability makes them crucial for regions facing erratic rainfall patterns.
• For example- In Maharashtra, pearl millet farming has gained traction due to its drought tolerance, enabling farmers to cultivate even in regions facing water scarcity.
• Salinity Tolerance: Certain millet varieties, like kodo millet, exhibit tolerance to saline soils, offering cultivation possibilities in areas affected by coastal flooding or soil degradation.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: Millets are rich in protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamins, often exceeding the levels found in rice and wheat. This makes them valuable for combating malnutrition and promoting dietary diversity.
• Economic Potential: Millets can withstand a wider range of temperatures and require fewer inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, making them more sustainable and climate-friendly than traditional crops. Millets offer farmers higher profit margins due to lower input costs and potential for premium pricing. Increased demand can create jobs and boost rural economies.
• Improved Soil Health: Millet cultivation promotes soil health by improving soil structure, reducing erosion, and fixing nitrogen in the soil. This benefits future crop yields and overall sustainable agriculture.

Lack of awareness about Millets, lack of available resources for production are some of the issues that need  to be addressed. While water-efficient, some millet varieties exhibit lower yields compared to traditional crops.

Policy Measures to Encourage adoption of millets:

• Minimum Support Price (MSP): There is a need to add more millet crops under the ambit of the MSP regime. Setting a remunerative MSP for millets incentivizes farmers to cultivate them over water-intensive options. It will also ensure income stability for farmers.
• Direct Sowing and Seed Subsidies: Proper subsidy framework needs to be established for new technologies that promote direct sowing techniques, minimizes water usages. It will reduce initial investment costs for farmers.
• Value Chain Development: Investing in storage, processing, and marketing infrastructure will increase demand and create a profitable market for millets.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educating farmers and consumers about the nutritional benefits and economic potential of millets can drive wider adoption and consumption.
• Public Distribution System Integration: Including millets in the PDS provides nutritional security to vulnerable populations while supporting farmers.

Millets offer a sustainable solution for water-scarce regions in India. By implementing supportive policies, investing in infrastructure, and raising awareness, India can harness the potential of these resilient crops. It will  ensure food security, improved farm income, and promote a more sustainable agricultural system.