Millets, a group of grains, have been hailed by India as a superfood – versatile, environmentally friendly, and, when prepared correctly, undoubtedly appealing even to world leaders. Following an arduous day of summit discussions that saw the African Union welcomed as a new G20 member, various millet-based delicacies will be served in different forms.
The world leaders will convene for this special meal at the Bharat Mandapam building, a vast exhibition center nestled in the heart of New Delhi, adorned with twinkling lights on Saturday night.
Among the vegetarian delicacies on the menu are oxtail millet leaf crisps adorned with yogurt and spiced chutney, Kerala red rice combined with millet crisps and curry leaves, and a cardamom-infused barnyard millet pudding complemented by a fig and peach compote, as reported by the Associated Press.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared 2023 as the Year of Millets, a declaration echoed by the United Nations. Even the White House recognized the importance of this grain when, in June, a White House state dinner for Prime Minister Modi featured plant-based millet courses, tailored to his vegetarian preferences.
The emphasis on millets represents an attempt to rejuvenate a robust and healthy crop that has been cultivated for millennia but was overshadowed by the European colonists’ preference for corn, wheat, and other grains. Renowned for their high protein content, potassium, vitamin B, and gluten-free nature, millets are celebrated for their culinary adaptability. They can be kneaded into rotis (flatbreads), used as batter for dosas (savory crepes), or simply boiled and served like rice alongside spiced lentils or dal.
Throughout history, millets have been cultivated worldwide, including in Japan, Europe, the Americas, and Australia. Nevertheless, their primary regions of cultivation have traditionally been India, China, and sub-Saharan Africa.
There are approximately nine types of millet in total, all of which are grown in India, the world’s largest producer. India accounts for a staggering 80% of millet production in Asia and 20% globally, as reported by the ORF.
Millets exhibit resilience to poor soils, drought, and harsh growing conditions. They adapt easily to diverse environments without requiring excessive fertilizer or pesticides. Moreover, millets are significantly less water-intensive than other grains, making them a sustainable choice, especially in arid regions.
Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, millets have experienced a resurgence. During a G20 meeting centered on agriculture in June, Modi highlighted India’s agricultural policy, characterizing it as a blend of “back to basics” and “marching towards the future.” Millets epitomize this approach, as they are not new; they have been cultivated for millennia. However, market influences had diverted attention from the value of traditional food crops.
With government support to promote millets, various startups across India have launched cafes, some even mobile, exclusively offering millet-based snacks. On platforms like Instagram, chefs and Bollywood celebrities are endorsing millets by sharing recipes, emphasizing their nutritional benefits and contribution to weight loss.
Indian ministers are also making concerted efforts to ensure that this humble grain gains international recognition. Notably, billionaire tech mogul and philanthropist Bill Gates, during a visit to India this year, showcased his culinary skills by preparing millet khichdi, a traditional Indian stew made with lentils and rice, further highlighting the growing global interest in millets.
