International Year of Millets 2023 Concludes at the FAO Rome

Utkarsh Classes Last Updated 30-03-2024

International Year of Millets 2023 Concludes at the FAO Rome

Environment 5 min read

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) held the closing ceremony of the International Year of Millets (IYM) 2023 on March 29th, 2024, at the FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

In March 2021, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets after a proposal by India, which was supported by over 70 countries.
It also highlighted the suitability of millets for cultivation under adverse and changing climatic conditions, and the benefits of creating sustainable market opportunities for producers and consumers.
The closing ceremony served as a forum to review the achievements and lessons learned from the International Year of Millets.

International Year of Millets (IYM 2023)

The United Nations General Assembly declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets at its 75th session in March 2021.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will lead the celebration of this Year in collaboration with other stakeholders. Millets are a type of grain that can grow in arid lands with minimal inputs and are resilient to changes in climate.

What are millets?

Millets are a type of grain that can grow in arid lands with minimal inputs and are resilient to changes in climate.
This makes them an ideal solution for countries looking to increase self-reliance and reduce dependence on imported grains.

Benefits of Millets

Millets are a type of grain that possess unique characteristics that allow them to thrive in poor soils, resist or tolerate various crop diseases and pests, and withstand adverse climatic conditions.
They offer a promising solution to food scarcity, particularly during difficult periods, while promoting sustainable land restoration and biodiversity.
In addition to their practical benefits, millets also offer a diverse range of culinary possibilities. Their mildly nutty flavor pairs well with both savory and sweet ingredients, providing ample opportunities to experiment with creative and unique flavor combinations in the kitchen.
Millets are also an important part of many traditional and Indigenous culinary cultures, and can serve as a gluten-free alternative for those with gluten sensitivities or coeliac disease.
Furthermore, millets possess vast genetic diversity, which can offer a wide range of possibilities for income generation for local communities and other food-system actors.
By strengthening their value chains, the economic potential of millets can be boosted while supporting the livelihoods of those who cultivate them.

About Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO):

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that focuses on global food and agricultural matters.
Its primary mission is to lead international efforts to prevent hunger.
World Food Day is celebrated annually on 16th October to commemorate the establishment of FAO in 1945.
FAO has its headquarters in Rome, Italy, and is currently headed by Director-General Qu Dongyu.
India is one of the founding members of FAO.