KATHMANDU: The government is celebrating National Millet Day for the first time today with the goal of reducing millet imports, boosting production and productivity, and enhancing food and nutritional security.
The day is being marked on 16th Shrawan (August 1) to help increase the income of small farmers through millet cultivation.
The main organizing committee for the event has been formed under the chairmanship of Prakash Kumar Sanjel, Director General of the Department of Agriculture. This year’s slogan is: “Diet of millet dishes: The basis of food security and healthy life.”
Director General Sanjel noted that National Millet Day holds significance in achieving the country’s sustainable development goals, addressing climate change impacts, transforming the food system, and preserving biodiversity.
According to the Department of Agriculture, Nepal imported approximately 18,316 metric tons of millet products worth Rs 766.386 crore in the fiscal year 2024/25.
To mark the occasion, a millet planting program is being held in Tathali, Changunarayan Municipality, along with an awards ceremony recognizing contributions in various categories, including farmers, the National Farmers’ Group Federation, and journalists. Provincial and local governments are also organizing various related events.
Sanjel expressed confidence that millet can be cultivated with minimal or no use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and aiding in climate change mitigation.
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