KARACHI:
Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that have been cultivated for thousands of years around the world. In Pakistan, millet has not been as widely adopted as a food crop for human consumption compared to wheat and rice. Millets have several health benefits as they are a rich source of essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Millet can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They have a low glycemic index and do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Additionally, millets are a sustainable crop that requires less water and fertiliser than wheat and rice. It is more resistant to pests and diseases and drought. Thus, it can grow in poor soils helping to conserve soil fertility and prevent erosion. It is a diverse group of crops that can grow in a wide range of environments, promoting biodiversity in agriculture. Millets are adapted to harsh growing conditions, making them more resilient to climate change.
Small-scale farmers who have limited resources can benefit from the cultivation of millets as they require fewer inputs, have a long shelf life and can be stored for several months providing farmers with a steady source of income throughout the year. The government should invest in training programmes for farmers to educate them on millet cultivation, which can improve the yield and quality of millets grown in the country. Pakistan can potentially become a major exporter of millet, providing a boost to the economy. The government should work with millet farmers and exporters to help them access international markets and build relationships with potential buyers.
Tahseen Memon
Sukkur
Published in The Express Tribune, April 20th, 2023.
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