Once considered a humble staple of rural India, millets are now at the center of a global food movement—and the Indian government is leading the charge. With rising demand for sustainable, nutrient-rich grains, India is positioning itself as the global hub for millet production and exports.
🇮🇳 a National Priority: Why the Government Is Betting Big on Millets
Recognizing their potential to combat malnutrition, support climate-resilient farming, and boost farmer incomes, the Government of India has launched a multi-pronged push to revive and promote millets:
- Declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets, following India’s proposal to the UNGA
- Rebranded millets as “Nutri-Cereals” to emphasize their health benefits
- Increased Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for key millet varieties to incentivize farmers
- Integrated millets into the Public Distribution System (PDS) and mid-day meal schemes
- Launched awareness campaigns through Krishi Vigyan Kendras, FPOs, and digital platforms
🌱 Production on the Rise: Statewise Support & Output
India produced over 17.3 million tonnes of millets in 2022–23, with major contributions from:
| State | Key Millets Grown |
|---|---|
| Rajasthan | Bajra, Jowar |
| Uttar Pradesh | Bajra, Barnyard, Kodo |
| Karnataka | Ragi, Foxtail, Jowar |
| Maharashtra | Jowar, Bajra |
| Tamil Nadu | Ragi, Kodo, Little Millet |
These states benefit from agro-climatic suitability and targeted government schemes for dryland farming.
🌍 Export Momentum: India’s Global Millet Footprint
India is the largest millet producer and among the top three exporters globally. The government, through APEDA and the Export Promotion Forum for Millets, is actively:
- Hosting buyer-seller meets and international trade fairs
- Supporting startups and exporters with branding and packaging assistance
- Promoting millet-based products in UAE, USA, Saudi Arabia, and Europe
In 2022–23, India exported over 103,000 metric tonnes of millets, with a value of $43 million, and the numbers are expected to grow.
📦 What This Means for Buyers & Exporters
With strong policy backing, improved infrastructure, and rising global demand, Indian millets are now:
- Export-ready with certifications like APEDA, FSSAI, and ISO
- Sustainably sourced from government-supported clusters
- Versatile for health foods, snacks, and gluten-free innovations
🤝 Join the Movement
We proudly align with India’s millet mission—sourcing from certified farms, ensuring quality, and delivering to global markets. Whether you’re a wholesaler, importer, or wellness brand, we’re your trusted partner in the millet revolution.
Let’s grow together—grain by grain.
Contact Us to explore our millet range or request a trade quote.