Tripura's Milestone in Millet Cultivation: A Model of Government-Farmer Collaboration

Tripura, a small hilly state in Northeast India, is making significant strides in millet production, aligning with the national push. Government initiatives and farmer collaboration have transformed the state's agricultural landscape, promoting sustainable and nutritious grain cultivation.

Tripura, a small hilly state in Northeast India, is making significant strides in millet production, aligning with the national push for this nutritious grain. India, already the leading producer of millets globally, has seen a surge in millet cultivation efforts, bolstered by proactive encouragement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi has championed the cultivation of millets in various forums, urging farmers across the country to embrace this resilient and nutritious crop.

Responding to this call, farmers nationwide have increasingly turned to millet cultivation, recognizing its benefits both for health and agriculture. In Tripura, this shift has been particularly noteworthy. The state government, with central support, has implemented various projects to promote millet farming. These initiatives have engaged farmers from diverse regions, providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to cultivate millets effectively.

Government officers in Tripura have played a pivotal role in this agricultural transformation, offering extensive support, guidance, and motivation to farmers. This hands-on assistance has enabled many farmers to transition successfully to millet cultivation, experiencing firsthand the benefits of this sustainable and nutritious grain. The collective efforts of the government and the farmers have started to bear fruit. Fields of millet are now a common sight in Tripura, marking a significant shift in the state's agricultural landscape.

Farmers have reported positive experiences with millet cultivation, noting its resilience to challenging weather conditions and suitability for the hilly terrain. As the popularity of millets continues to grow, domestically and internationally, Tripura stands out as a model of successful implementation and government-farmer collaboration. The state's achievements contribute to India's position as a global leader in millet cultivation and highlight the potential for other regions to follow suit.

With ongoing support and a continued focus on sustainable farming, Tripura's farmers are well-positioned to thrive in the millet market, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for themselves and their communities.

Mahender Rajbhar, a millet farmer, expressed his gratitude, saying, "This is the first time I am cultivating millets on my land. With the help of the Tripura government, I am able to grow millets in my fields. The agriculture department has explained the nutrient benefits of millet, and the government has provided me with Rs 4,000 and the necessary facilities to grow the crop."

Raju Rabidas, Agriculture Superintendent in Bamutia, said, "PM Narendra Modi has introduced millets as Shri Anna, which brings vast knowledge and experience for all Indians. Along with governmental agriculture schemes, we provide many other facilities to encourage farmers. At the field level, we went to various schools to share the benefits of millets. From the government side, farmers receive Rs 10,000, and under Atma schemes, an additional Rs 4,000, which helps a lot."

Samar Sarkar, another farmer, shared his experience, stating he has been cultivating millets for the last 1 to 2 years. "This is the second time I am growing these crops. I am also growing three types of millets. The government is very helpful, providing seeds, fertilizers, and all necessary facilities." Dr. Uttam Saha, Joint Director of Agriculture Research & Farmer Welfare, added that millet cultivation is an initiative of the Government of India, driven by PM Modi.

"Because they (farmers) now know about the nutritional value of millets, it's considered a miracle crop. Millet can be grown in any weather condition and is gluten- and cholesterol-free. For children and diabetic patients, millet is the only crop. Hence, the department is taking initiatives to increase the quantity and quality of millet cultivation," Saha added.

(With inputs from agencies.)