Contributed by Chef Vaibhav Bhargava
In recent years, there has been a notable resurgence of interest in traditional grains, particularly millets, due to their exceptional nutritional value, climate resilience and potential to address food security challenges. As we delve into the significance of millets, it becomes evident that they are not just grains; they are a symbol of sustainable agriculture and healthy living. This article celebrates the millets of the year, highlighting their importance, benefits and the growing global movement towards their cultivation and consumption.
This article is all about types of millet, their usage and how can we use them in our daily routine with quick easy recipes and the types of benefits they have in regular consumption in diets.
MILLETS was recognised in 2023 as the MILLETS OF THE YEAR by Our Honourable Prime Minister Mr. Narender Singh Modi. In the current Scenario of the food industry, Millets have been extensively promoted in the last 2 to 3 years but what exactly are millets and why we are talking so much about them?
Why is the Ministry of Tourism promoting so much of millets programs and seminars on millets?
WHAT ARE MILLETS?
Millet is a type of cereal that is a part of the grass family Poaceae. This small round whole grain is grown in India and Nigeria, especially in Asia and Africa.
Millets are broadly divided into 2 categories. 
Major millets and Minor millets
MAJOR MILLETS
1.FINGER MILLET (MANDUA OR RAGI)
2.PEARL MILLET (BAJRA)
- SORGHUM MILLET (JOWAR)
MINOR MILLETS
- FOXTAIL MILLET (KANGNI)
2.LITTLE MILLET (KUTKI)
3.BARNYARD MILLET (SANWA)
4.PROSO MILLET (CHENA)
- KODO MILLET
- BROWNTOP MILLET
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MILLETS Contributes to digestive health 
Great for people with gluten intolerance
Supports heart health
Enhances mood
Manages weight
Per 100 gm serving of uncooked millets provides 378 calories. All millet types are rich in carbohydrates. Therefore, you can expect to feel and stay energised after consuming millet for a long time. Apart from carbohydrates, it is also a great source of protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. You can get calcium in finger millet. These are some of the nutrients that you need in your body regularly.
Therefore, consuming millet can help you get several types of essential nutrients.
As we were celebrating G20, 75th anniversary, Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, I was invited by HIGH COMMISSION OF INDIA NAIROBI last year in June.
To celebrate AKAM WEEK KENYA, INDIAN MILLETS FOOD FESTIVAL 2023 at Sarova Panafric Hotel. There I showcased various recipes on millets in various restaurants to celebrate food with local guests and with the Embassy People.
