India Launches Millets Festival in Indonesia to Promote Food Security

The Indian Mission to ASEAN and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare have jointly organised the five-day Millets Festival in Jakarta, Indonesia, to raise awareness and create a market for millets and millets-based products among the 10-member bloc.

The Indian Mission to ASEAN, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, launched a five-day Millets Festival in Jakarta, Indonesia. The festival aims to raise awareness and create a market for millets and millet-based products among the 10-member bloc.

Importance of Millets for Food Security

During the ASEAN-India Summit, a joint statement on food security was adopted, highlighting the significance of millets in ensuring food security. Millets are resilient to changes in climate and can grow on arid lands with minimal inputs, making them an ideal solution for countries to increase self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imported cereal grains.

Addressing Global Hunger and Nutrient Deficiencies

Jayant Khobragade, India's Ambassador to ASEAN, emphasized the crucial role of millets in addressing global hunger and nutrient deficiencies. The festival provides an opportunity to showcase the nutritional benefits of millets and promote their potential to provide new sustainable market opportunities for producers and consumers.

Millets as a Sustainable Food Choice

Arief Prasetyo Adi, Head of the National Food Agency Badan Pangan Nasional BPN Indonesia, underscored millets as a farmer-friendly and sustainable food choice for the future in the face of climate change. The ASEAN-India Millet Festival aims to raise awareness of the benefits of millets, from nutritional status and environmental sustainability to economic development.

Creating a Market for Millets in ASEAN

The 'ASEAN-India Millets Festival' is being held at the Kota Kasablanka Mall, a prominent shopping destination in South Jakarta. The festival aims to create a market for millets and millet-based products among ASEAN Member States. The participation of Indian Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), industry leaders, start-ups, and chefs from India and Indonesia highlights the potential for collaboration and cultural exchange.

Promoting Sustainable Millet Practices

The Millet-centric exhibition showcases the diverse range of millet-based products available in the market, including millet cookies, namkeen, khakhra, cakes, and more. The festival also aims to foster collaboration between ASEAN countries, celebrate cultural and culinary diversity, and promote sustainable millet practices for a healthier future.

Success Stories from Indian Entrepreneurs

Ankit Patel, representing Ahmedabad-based Vaam Agro company, shared his experience of manufacturing millet-based products. Within just four months, the company has sold products worth Rs 50 lakhs. Rizal Satria, an Indonesia-based entrepreneur, also highlighted the growing demand for millet-based products in his country.

Live Cooking Workshops by Celebrity Chefs

A major highlight of the festival is the live cooking workshop, where celebrity chefs from India and Indonesia will showcase the culinary potential of millets. Through these interactive sessions, participants can learn how to incorporate millets into various dishes and explore the diverse flavors and textures they offer.

Strengthening ASEAN-India Partnership

The ASEAN-India Millets Festival is a testament to the strong partnership between India and ASEAN countries. By promoting millets as a sustainable and nutritious food source, the festival contributes to the overall framework of the ASEAN-India relationship and addresses the shared goal of food security in the region.

In conclusion, the Millets Festival in Indonesia provides a platform to showcase the potential of millets in addressing food security challenges, promoting sustainable agriculture, and fostering economic opportunities. Through this initiative, India and ASEAN countries can work together to create a healthier and more sustainable future for the region.