The Indian Army has pushed for the inclusion of millets flour in troops’ rations in an effort to encourage the consumption of millets in light of the UN designating 2023 as the International Year of Millets. Following its discontinuation in favour of Wheat Atta for more than 50 years, native and traditional grains will once again be provided to troops thanks to this historic decision.
Traditional millet meals that have been shown to have positive health effects and are appropriate for our geographic and climatic conditions would be a crucial step in reducing lifestyle diseases and boosting troop contentment and morale. Now, millets would be a staple of every rank’s daily menu.
Millets flour, not to exceed 25 percent of the authorised entitlement of Cereals (Rice and Wheat Atta), has been requested for use in military meals starting in 2023–2024.
The amount demanded and the choice exercised will determine the procurement and issue.
three widely used kinds of millet flour, i.e.
The troops will receive Bajra, Jowar, and Ragi according to their preferences.
Millets have the advantage of improving the soldier’s diet’s nutritional profile by serving as a good source of proteins, micronutrients, and phytochemicals.
Moreover, warnings have been given on the widespread usage of millets in organised events, Barakhanas, canteens, and domestic cooking.
For the purpose of preparing wholesome, delectable, and nutrient-dense millet dishes, chefs are undergoing centralised training. The introduction of value-added millet products and snacks to troops stationed near the northern borders has received special attention. CSD canteens are introducing millet dishes, and shopping centres are setting up special areas for them. Campaigns to raise awareness about millet are also being done in school settings.
