Unearthing the Nutritional and Agricultural Value through Scientific Innovation in the Natural Gene Pool of Millets
Sunita Choudhary
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Srinagar Garhwal Uttarakhand 246174, India.
Y. K. Singh *
Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Vishnu Moond
Department of Agronomy, RNT College of Agriculture Kapasan (MPUA&T-Udaipur), Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, 312202, India.
Dharmendra Bahadur Singh
Department of Vegetable Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, India.
Achal Kant
Genetics and Plant Breeding, Narayan Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Gopal Narayan Singh University Jamuhar, Sasaram, Dist. - Rohtas (Bihar) 821305, India.
P. Tejasree
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Kadiri Baburao College of Agriculture, C.S Puram, Kanigiri, Andhra Pradesh – 523112, India.
Shivam Kumar Pandey
Rashtriya Raksha University, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This delves into the exploration of millets' natural gene pool, highlighting the pivotal role of scientific innovation in unlocking their nutritional and agricultural value. Millets, often overlooked, have demonstrated remarkable resilience to adverse environmental conditions, making them essential crops for ensuring food security in a changing climate. Their adaptability, deep root systems, and drought tolerance position millets as reliable sources of sustenance in water-stressed regions. Moreover, millets are nutritional powerhouses, offering essential nutrients such as protein, dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, iron, and zinc. Their gluten-free nature enhances their accessibility and inclusivity in diverse dietary regimes. Millet farming practices align with sustainability goals by promoting biodiversity conservation, reducing chemical inputs, and fostering economic development for smallholder farmers. Governments worldwide are recognizing the potential of millets, implementing policies and initiatives to support their production and market development. As the global community seeks solutions to nutritional security and hidden hunger, millets emerge as a resilient and nourishing ally. The integration of millets into food systems, driven by research, investment, and policy support, offers a pathway to a sustainable, nourished, and equitable future.
Keywords: Scientific innovation, nutritional value, sustainability, food security, millet