Odisha Millet Mission
The Odisha Millet Mission (OMM) was launched in 2017 to revive traditional millet cultivation in Odisha. This initiative aimed to restore millets to local diets and enhance the livelihoods of tribal communities. Millets, particularly finger millet, have been a staple in the region for centuries. They are known for their resilience to climate variability and high nutritional value. However, recent changes in the mission’s approach have raised concerns among local farmers and activists.
Nutritional Benefits of Millets
Millets are rich in nutrients. Finger millet, for example, contains amounts of protein, fibre, iron, and calcium. These nutrients are crucial for combating malnutrition in tribal populations. The adaptability of millets to poor soil and erratic weather makes them a sustainable choice for farmers in Odisha.
High-Yielding Varieties
Under the Shree Anna Abhiyan, the government introduced high-yielding millet varieties. These include GPU-28, GPU-48, and others. Local farmers and activists fear:
- Loss of indigenous seed varieties
- Poor performance of new seeds in local climate/soil
- Dependence on external seed suppliers
- Erosion of local biodiversity and traditional knowledge
Farmers reported that 35% of Koraput’s millet seed needs (871 quintals) will be replaced with new hybrid seeds. Koraput is India’s largest finger millet-producing district (74,000 hectares in 2021–22; 79% of that under ragi).
The Debate on Agricultural Policies
The introduction of high-yielding varieties has sparked a debate on agricultural policies in Odisha. Critics claim that the government is prioritising productivity over ecological sustainability. They argue that the original goals of the OMM are being compromised. This has led to calls for the withdrawal of non-indigenous seed varieties.
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