India Hosts ASEAN-India Millets Festival in Jakarta

India has launched a five-day “ASEAN-India Millets Festival” in Jakarta, Indonesia, aimed at raising awareness about millets as a farmer-friendly and sustainable food choice. Organized by the Indian Mission to ASEAN and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the festival features a millet-centric exhibition with participation from Millet-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), start-ups, and Indian chefs.

Objectives of the Festival

1. Promoting Millets: The festival seeks to create a market for millets and millets-based products among the 10-member ASEAN bloc, fostering awareness and understanding of the benefits of millets.
2. Culinary Diversity: The event aims to celebrate cultural and culinary diversity, showcasing sustainable millet practices for a healthier future.

Significance and Context

• Food Security: The festival aligns with the joint statements adopted during the ASEAN-India Summit, emphasizing food security. Millets are recognized as an important element for ensuring food security.
• Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: The event reflects the effective collaboration within the comprehensive strategic partnership between ASEAN and India.

International Year of Millets

India led the UN General Assembly Resolution to declare the year 2023 as the ‘International Year of Millets.’ This initiative aims to address food security challenges, promote sustainable millet production, and highlight the potential for new market opportunities.

Millets as a Sustainable Solution

Millets can grow on arid lands with minimal inputs, making them resilient to climate change. They offer a sustainable solution for countries to increase self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported cereal grains.

Live Cooking Workshop and Exhibitions

The festival includes a live cooking workshop featuring celebrity chefs from India and Indonesia, showcasing the culinary potential of millets. The exhibition features Millet-based FPOs, start-ups, and Indian chefs presenting a variety of millet-added products.

Collaborative Efforts

The festival provides a platform for collaboration between ASEAN countries, promoting the exchange of ideas, cultural diversity, and sustainable millet practices.

Global Impact

India’s proactive efforts to promote millets, both nationally and internationally, contribute to addressing global hunger, promoting nutrient-rich foods, and supporting environmentally sustainable agriculture practices.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2023

Category: Important Days & Events Current Affairs