Manoj Sinha promotes millets for health and climate resilience

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has called for the reintegration of millets into mainstream Indian diets and agriculture to promote healthier food systems and climate-resilient farming. Speaking at a seminar at Government Medical College, Jammu, and a national dialogue at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Sinha emphasized that millets are a sustainable alternative to water-intensive crops like rice and wheat.

Sinha highlighted the nutritional benefits of millets, noting they are rich in fiber, iron, and calcium, and possess a low glycemic index that supports heart health and weight management. He cited data regarding the rise of non-communicable diseases in India, suggesting that traditional foods could serve as a vital tool for disease prevention.

Beyond health, the Lieutenant Governor noted that millets support environmental sustainability and farmer livelihoods. Because these crops require minimal water and chemical support, they are well-suited for harsh climates and can provide stability for small and marginal farmers facing climate change.