2-day convention on millets in Northeast India takes off in Manipur

IMPHAL — Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey on Monday inaugurated the two-day Regional Convention of North East States on the Available Millets in North Eastern Region of Bharat and its Benefit in Nutrition, Mid Day Meal (MDM), Anganwadis and Take Home Raashan at College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (CAU) campus in Imphal.

The convention was jointly organised by Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur and National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) New Delhi.

Addressing the gatherings, the governor said that there is a need to discuss the role of millets in the present times in view of the increasing importance of millets, a staple food in many cultures for thousands of years.

She mentioned that millets have gained popularity due to its high nutritional value and sustainability. Earlier, it was considered to be the main food of the poor and tribal people, but today, it is widely used even in five star hotels for its high nutritional value, she added.

She said the event will provide a platform for dialogue among all stakeholders to promote the use of millets in improving child nutrition and develop collaborative work.

Due to its high value, the Government of India declared 2018 as the National Year of Millets and the United Nations General Assembly in its 7th session declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets, she added.

Sharing her experience in varied fields, the governor stressed on the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle.

VC (CAU) Dr. Anupam Mishra; Dean, College of Food Technology(CAU) Dr. Ng Iboyaima Singh; Chairman Keisham Pradipkumar of Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights; Director Ng Uttam Singh of Social Welfare Department; Senior Technical Expert(NCPCR) Shaista K Shah; and Dean College of Agriculture(CAU) Prof Indira Sarangthem  also attended the inaugural function.

Earlier in the programme, the governor inspected the exhibition stalls set up at the venue and lauded the participants for introducing millet-based products.