Kathua, January 24: Under its resolve to encourage people to use Millet in their daily Consumption, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Kathua today organised a programme at Agriculture Office Kathua today.
Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rahul Pandey who was the chief guest inaugurated the programme.
Pertinently, as proposed by India, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM).
While speaking on the occasion, the DC said millet cultivation can be encouraged by proper handholding of the farmers especially small and marginal farmers who can increase their income by adopting Millet in their agriculture practice. He said that climate friendly crop millet can be grown with less water consumption, less carbon emission and even in drought. “Millets provide an alternative food system in times of increasing demand for vegetarian foods besides contributing to a balanced diet as well as a safe environment, ” he added.
The DC appreciated the Agriculture Department for taking Millet production on mission mode and has been collaborating with women self help groups, women entrepreneurs and organisations to promote it at a higher scale. He said focus must be given to generate awareness among the masses about the nutritional value of millets so that their production and consumption can be increased in the coming times.
Chief Agriculture Officer, Kathua Sanjeev Rai Gupta said that the agriculture department will make efforts to bring more areas under millet cultivation in the district under Holistic development Program launched by Jammu and Kashmir government.
On the occasion, DC Kathua launched “Multi millet flour” under brand “Kathua Kheti” in presence of Agriculture Officers and members of Women Self Help Groups.
Millets snacks prepared by Multi Millet Grain Flour were also served to the participants to encourage the use of millets.
On the occasion, District Agriculture Officer (Ext), Murari Lal, Head, KVK Kathua Vishal Mahajan and other concerned Officers were present.
