Millet Fair 2025 Organized by Agriculture Department at Farmer Training Centre, Sundernagar.
Shimla:
The Department of Agriculture successfully organized the one-day Millet Fair 2025 at the Farmer Training Centre in Sundernagar Mandi district on March 29. The event, themed “Anaj Se Swasthya Tak – Millets ka Safar,” was graced by C. Palrasu, Secretary of Agriculture, Himachal Pradesh Government, as the chief guest. Other notable dignitaries included Padmashri Nek Ram Sharma, Joint Director Agriculture (Northern Region), Dharamshala; Dr. Rahul Katoch, Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil); Amar Negi, State President of Kisan Union, Sita Ram Verma; and several district and block-level officers from the agriculture department.
The fair saw the participation of 584 progressive farmers producing millets from Mandi and surrounding districts. The program began with a warm welcome from Dr. Ram Chander Chaudhary, Deputy Director Agriculture, Mandi, who welcomed the chief guest, dignitaries, and farmers. The event kicked off with the millet pledge and a song composed by RAA Hyderabad. Dr. Kavita Sharma, Scientist from KVK Sundernagar, along with Dr. Manju Lata Sisodiya, Assistant Professor from the Botany Department, MLSM College Sundernagar, gave an informative session on the production technology, nutritional benefits, and environmental resilience of millets. They also discussed the value addition of millet crops.
Farmers attending the event had the opportunity to share their concerns and get solutions related to millet cultivation directly from agricultural scientists. In addition, various progressive farmers and self-help groups presented their experiences and initiatives in the millet sector.
A key highlight of the fair was the exhibition showcasing millet products and new agricultural technologies. The Department of Agriculture, Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojna, JICA Project, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, HIMRAA, and self-help groups displayed millet-based products and technologies. This exhibition was a major attraction for the public, with visitors sampling recipes made from millets.
During the fair, Padmashri Nek Ram Sharma shared his expertise on millet cultivation and natural farming. He emphasized the health benefits of millets, urging farmers to incorporate these nutritious grains into their diets to address nutrient deficiencies and prevent various diseases. Young entrepreneur Yashpal Chandel also spoke about his journey in the millet product business, which he started after being inspired by the agriculture department. His business now operates in five districts of Himachal Pradesh, with plans for expansion. He also sells his products on e-commerce platforms like Amazon.
Sita Ram Verma, the State President of HP Kisan Union, addressed the farmers’ concerns and shared his views on the challenges faced by farmers. Dr. Rahul Katoch, Joint Director of Agriculture (North Zone), Dharamshala, spoke about millet cultivation and the potential for value addition.
C. Palrasu, Secretary of Agriculture, Himachal Pradesh, concluded the event by highlighting the importance of millets as a nutritious cereal. He assured the farmers of the government’s efforts to address their issues systematically. He encouraged farmers to grow millets and explore various millet-based cuisines prepared by self-help groups. Additionally, he announced government procurement prices for crops produced through natural farming: wheat at Rs. 60 per kg, maize at Rs. 40 per kg, and turmeric at Rs. 90 per kg.
In recognition of their contributions, 25 progressive farmers working in the millet sector were honored with mementoes. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Prachi, Principal of the Farmer Training Centre, Sundernagar.
This successful event emphasized the growing importance of millets in the region and the government’s continued efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and healthy nutrition.
