Previously considered a staple food for poor indigenous people, millet was widely ignored as part of the regular diet of urban people. It demonstrated its potential during the five-day International Food Innovation Exhibition in Paris, France.
Millets, also known as “Mandia” in Odisha and “Ragi” throughout the country, have recently gained popularity.
Following the Odisha government’s declaration of November 10 as “Millet Day” or “Mandia Diwas,” there has been a sudden increase in people’s liking for the foodgrain across the country.
Previously considered a staple food for poor indigenous people, millet was widely ignored as part of the regular diet of urban people. It demonstrated its potential during the five-day International Food Innovation Exhibition in Paris, France.
On October 13, Chandrama Sahoo, President of Maa Raimali SHG, travelled to Paris with three members of her group to exhibit millet-based food items.
“Participants from more than 125 countries took part in the event, and our products were highly appreciated,” Chandrama said in an interview with Odisha TV. People used to take Ganjam-produced Mandia (finger millets) for granted.”
Cakes, dried snacks, and biscuits made from finger millet were displayed at the exhibition, which was well received by the judges.
According to Itishree Behera of India NGO, “we chose the SHG group to attend the Paris event because of their strong interest in developing millet products and turning them into a business.” Previously restricted to the poor, mandia (millets) have now emerged as a healthier alternative for the wealthy.”
Meanwhile, Zila Parisad Member Ashok Kumar Bisoyi stated, “We were previously acquainted with millet porridge, which is now not acceptable by the young generation.” Millet is a rural product, and presenting it on a global scale is a huge accomplishment.”
(Source: Agency)
Prasanta Patnaik