Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlights Odisha’s leadership in millet promotion at Mandia Dibasa celebration

Shivraj Singh Chouhan, today inaugurated the “Mandia Dibasa” (Millet Day) celebration at the Convention Centre, Lok Seva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, highlighting Odisha’s exemplary contribution in transforming India’s millet movement into a people’s mission.

In his inaugural address, Shri Chouhan said, “Mandia Dibasa is not merely a day of celebration, it represents a meaningful campaign to promote Shree Anna. “Many have spoken about it, but Odisha has truly brought this vision to the ground. I wholeheartedly congratulate the Government of Odisha for this remarkable effort”, he said.

He emphasized that Shree Anna is not just a grain, but a symbol of nutrition, water conservation, environmental care, and sustainability for future generations. “Millets nourish both the body and the planet. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, millets have now gained global recognition,” he added.

Shri Chouhan stressed that awareness about the nutritional and ecological value of millets must reach the people. “This cannot be achieved through speeches alone. We must engage directly with farmers and citizens, spread awareness about Shree Anna, and strengthen millet-based livelihoods,” he added.

He urged scientists to focus on research and processing technologies, noting that millet cultivation is cost-effective compared to other crops. “Processing is the most crucial link in the millet value chain. I applaud Odisha for showing direction to the nation not only in millet promotion but also in purchasing Shree Anna at Minimum Support Price. Odisha stands as an inspiring example,” he remarked.

Encouraging millet’s inclusion in nutrition schemes, he suggested that millets should be integrated into mid-day meals for children and millet outlets should be opened in all government departments, so that other states can replicate Odisha’s model. He also appreciated the significant role of women farmers in Odisha, saying, “Agriculture cannot progress without women. Odisha’s women have moved ahead and are leading from the front in farming.”