KARNALI: Karnali Province observed the second National Millet Day, 2083, on Saturday under the theme “Conservation of millet for food security and nutrition.”
Speaking at a program organized by the Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperatives in Birendranagar, participants emphasized the need to change public perceptions toward millet and highlighted its growing importance amid rising concerns over food insecurity.
Ministry Secretary Sanjiv Kumar Karna said millet has significant nutritional and medicinal value and stressed the need to identify and conserve different local varieties to help improve nutrition and reduce poverty. He said millet should no longer be viewed as food for the poor.
“Millet is a nutrient-rich crop and should be protected and promoted as a major agricultural product,” Karna said, adding that changing attitudes toward millet is equally important.
He also said Karnali has strong potential to develop as a center for organic agricultural products, with millet playing a key role in that effort.
During the event, ministry agronomist Bimala Kumari Khanal presented a paper on the origin, production, consumption, and cultivation challenges of millet. She called for the protection of indigenous millet varieties and the promotion of commercial farming.
An exhibition was also held on the occasion, featuring more than 20 millet-based food items, including both traditional dishes such as dhindo and modern products such as cakes.
Organic farmer Kamal Nepali said more than 24 types of food can be prepared from millet. He added that involving young people in millet commercialization could create employment opportunities and contribute to the provincial economy.
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