Ministry of Education urges states and union territories to introduce millet-based dishes in school canteens

In an effort to promote healthy eating habits and raise awareness about millets, the Ministry of Education has urged all states and union territories in India to introduce millet-based dishes in school canteens.

This initiative comes as part of the ongoing International Year of Millets, a global campaign aimed at highlighting the nutritional benefits of these coarse cereals.

According to a statement released by the ministry on July 5, it had previously written to all states and union territories in April, requesting them to share a month-wise calendar of activities related to millets.

However, the ministry expressed disappointment as the requested information is still pending. It has now sent a reminder to the concerned officials, urging them to take immediate action.

"Kindly instruct the concerned officials in your State/UT for taking suitable actions to adopt millet-based recipes in the



canteens/mess of the schools/offices and promote their health and nutritious benefits as well as provide month-wise calendar of activities to create awareness regarding the use of Shree Anna for the celebration of International Year of Millets to this Department at the earliest," stated the ministry.

The United Nations declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets at India's initiative. Since then, the country has been dedicated to popularising these nutritious grains, known for their rich micronutrient content and resilience.

However, despite repeated requests, some states have failed to inform the ministry about their efforts and activities related to the millet year.

An anonymous official revealed that the ministry has once again reached out to the states, urging them to submit the necessary details promptly. The official emphasised the importance of cooperation from all states to ensure the success of the millet year.