Indian Women Farmers Shine as Global Millet Ambassadors, Empowering Agriculture at the G20 Summit

By: WE Staff | Friday, 8 September 2023

Women farmers from 11 Indian states are set to showcase millet farming expertise to the spouses of G20 leaders. This demonstration will take place at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute on September 9, providing a platform to exhibit India's prominence as a leading millet exporter worldwide.

Farmers from ten major millet-producing states will engage in discussions with the spouses of G20 leaders, facilitating knowledge exchange on millet cultivation. The G20 Summit, led by Prime Minister Modi, will feature live cooking demonstrations, including meals prepared from millets, alongside a culinary spread that encompasses both Indian and continental cuisine.

Over 20 women farmers, hailing from remote villages, will share their rich experiences and insights into millet farming during this event. These women symbolize a grassroots movement that aims to revolutionize millet cultivation across India, emphasizing resilience, innovation, and the socio-economic potential of this crop.

India's commitment to millets is evidenced by its declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM), a resolution supported by 72 members of the United Nations General Assembly. These women farmers represent the face of change at the grassroots level. They are not only engaged in millet cultivation but are also actively mobilizing their communities to harness the socio-economic benefits of this nutritious and climate-resilient crop.

This event marks a significant step in promoting millet farming not only within India but on the global stage. Millets, known for their nutritional value and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions, hold the potential to address food security and sustainability challenges, making them a critical focus area for agricultural development. Through their stories and expertise, these women farmers are inspiring a new generation of millet enthusiasts and contributing to the broader goal of sustainable agriculture and nutrition.