UNGA announces 2023 as the International Year of Millets

India is known for its surplus production of grains. Be it wheat, rice or millets, India provides its stocked-up grains to other nations as well.

Recently, millets have been a part of many government-launched events in which the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare have highlighted the benefits of this golden grain and focused on documenting its heritage.

India produces many varieties of millets that could grow in less water and are heat-resistant. The international year of millets 2023 was approved by Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) in 2018, and the United Nations General Assembly has announced 2023 as the international year of millets.

Millets have various health significances.

Stabilises sugar levels - Millets are lower on the glycemic index (GI) and high in fibre that helps in keeping our blood sugar steady. Therefore, it is quite beneficial for a diabetic patient.

Good for digestive system - Millets are rich in fibre and support good bacteria in the gut which helps prevent constipation, bloating and gastric problems.

Weight management - Millets are highly nutritious for our diet plan and are low in cholesterol, helping us keep a check on our weight.

Rich in antioxidants - Millets are rich in calcium, magnesium and iron. For example - Ragi is known to have the highest calcium content among all food crops.

Lately, government has increased the minimum support price (MSP) on millets and has also included millets in the public distribution system.

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