Decrease in millets output worrying: Ahmed Patel writes to Gujarat CM
May 06, 2015
Ahmedabad
Rajya Sabha MP from Gujarat, Ahmed Patel has led attention of Gujarat Chief Minister on decrease in the production of millets in the state.
Quoting the Socio-Economic Review(2014-15) of Gujarat, Ahmed Patel in a letter to Chief Minister Anandiben Patel said production of Bajra has reduced by 21% whereas Jowar output has shrunk by more than half (52%) to stand at a mere 84,000 tonnes.
He pointed out that the figures are alarming because protein and micro nutrients-rich millets are vital in fight against malnutrition when half of children in Gujarat face stunted growth due to malnutrition.
He further said, “unlike other crops, millets can grow in harsh climatic conditions, require less water and fertilizer, and yet provide reasonable yields to the farmers. Hence I find it disturbing that despite their numerous benefits, production of millets is receiving scant attention from the state government. Consequently, the acreage of both Jowar and Bajra has reduced by 48% and 25% respectively within one year.”
Ahmed Patel urged the Gujarat government through this letter to revise PDS policies and initiate measures to encourage the production of millets as millets are especially necessary for the have-nots and those living in perpetual poverty.
– DeshGujarat
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