The Odisha Millet Mission (OMM), launched in 2017, aimed to revive traditional millet cultivation in Odisha, restoring millets to local diets and improving the livelihoods of tribal communities. Millets, especially finger millet (ragi), have been a staple in the region for centuries due to their resilience to climate variability and high nutritional value. However, recent shifts in the mission’s approach, particularly the introduction of high-yielding varieties, have sparked concerns among local farmers and activists.
Nutritional Benefits of Millets
Millets are a nutritional powerhouse. Finger millet, for instance, is rich in protein, fibre, iron, and calcium, making it vital for combating malnutrition in Odisha’s tribal populations. Their adaptability to poor soil conditions and erratic weather patterns positions millets as a sustainable crop for farmers facing climate challenges.
High-Yielding Varieties
As part of the Shree Anna Abhiyan, the government introduced high-yielding millet varieties such as GPU-28, GPU-48, and others. While aimed at boosting productivity, these varieties have raised concerns among farmers and activists, including:
- Loss of indigenous seed varieties, threatening traditional agricultural practices.
- Poor performance of hybrid seeds in Odisha’s local climate and soil conditions.
- Dependence on external seed suppliers, increasing costs and reducing self-reliance.
- Erosion of local biodiversity and traditional knowledge.
In Koraput, India’s largest finger millet-producing district (covering 74,000 hectares in 2021–22, with 79% under ragi), farmers reported that 35% of millet seed needs (871 quintals) will be replaced with hybrid seeds, intensifying these concerns.
The Debate on Agricultural Policies
The shift toward high-yielding varieties has ignited a broader debate on Odisha’s agricultural policies. Critics argue that prioritizing productivity over ecological sustainability undermines the original goals of the OMM. They highlight the risk of losing biodiversity and cultural heritage tied to indigenous millets. This has led to growing calls for the withdrawal of non-indigenous seed varieties to preserve traditional farming practices.
Stay updated with GKBoard.in for more insights on General Knowledge and Current Affairs!