Millets are grown in Asian and African regions. This crop is being increasingly recognised for its health benefits. Owing to this crop’s numerous advantages, the UN has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets, highlighting its significance. The purpose of such celebrations is to bring focus to often overlooked subjects, like these crops. Such efforts help in promoting international dialogue, research, and trade enhancement at a global level. Following the 2013 International Year of Quinoa, this superfood’s global demand has surged by manifolds. The recent surge in the popularity of millets can be linked to a decision by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly during its 75th session in March 2021, which proclaimed 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM2023). As per research, conventional staples like rice, wheat, and maize fall short in addressing micronutrient deficiencies. However, Israel Oliver King, Director of Biodiversity at the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), points out that millets are nutritionally rich and offer a variety of health benefits.

The campaign about the year of the millets traces its roots back to India. In an effort to boost both domestic and international demand and to offer nutritious food options, the Indian government suggested to the United Nations that 2023 be recognized as the International Year of Millets (IYoM-2023). This post of X (formerly known as Twitter) showcases young children thanking Indian PM Mr.Narendra Modi for bringing pro-planet policies about developing a sustainable future.

I recently attended a Millets promo event in Johannesburg.Millets are very essential to Save Soil.Was amazed by India’s efforts in promoting pro-planet policies at mass level and love of Indians for their leader. video of millets champs expressing love to their dear PM of India. pic.twitter.com/hDg1L493fT

— Tseke Nkadimeng (@HeadlinesMzans) May 27, 2023

This suggestion from India received backing from 72 countries, leading to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially designating 2023 as the International Year of Millets on March 5, 2021. Following this, India’s Union Finance Minister announced in the budget on February 1, 2022, the support for initiatives focused on post-harvest value addition, increasing domestic consumption, and promoting millet products both nationally and globally. In this post, the Indian PM Mr. Narendra Modi can be seen addressing how the entire world came together to support 2023 as the year of the millets and the health benefits of the millets.

#WATCH | At the Yoga Day event at the UN HQ in New York, PM Narendra Modi says, "Last year the entire world came together to support India's proposal to celebrate 2023 as the International Year of Millets…It is wonderful to see the entire world come together again for Yoga." pic.twitter.com/h461S45hdV

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2023

In this post, Nina Curtis, one of the most renowned chefs globally can be seen talking about the importance of millets.

#WATCH | Guest Chef Nina Curtis gives details on the State Dinner that will be hosted for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"…We are very excited that India is leading efforts to celebrate the international year of millet. We have incorporated marinated millets into our menu" she… pic.twitter.com/Ts0Smq6TN7

— ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2023

Taking a cue from what’s been happening on the world stage, the Consulate General of India, Johannesburg in association with Women Empowerment League (WEL) organised a Millet Langar Seva at Gurudwara Sahib Sandton, Johannesburg in June 2023. The main attractions of the super yummy langar prepared by WEL ladies were:

 

1. Millets Poori/Roti
2. Millets Pulav
3. Millets Kheer
4. Millets/Raagi butter milk
5. Spicy garlic chutney and many others

Mr. Harbinder Singh Sethi was himself present at the langar ensuring that everything happened in a smooth manner. The kind of enthusiasm with which he participated in all the activities showcases how profoundly he thinks about leaving a legacy for future generations.

For the successful completion of the event, Ms. Rashmi Haribhat, founder of WEL offered a special thanks to His Excellency Mr Mahesh Kumar ji (Consul General), Mr Harbinder Singh Sethi ji, Ms Pamela Sethi ji for the great support they provided to make this event so successful.

She expressed her gratitude and quoted “On behalf of WEL, I want to express our deepest appreciation to Mr. Harbinder Singh Sethi and Ms. Pamela Sethi for their unwavering dedication and active involvement in charitable activities.Their commitment to helping others, a fundamental aspect of Sikh teachings, is admirably embodied by both Mr. and Mrs. Sethi and the Gurudwara Sahib Sandton. Their work in Johannesburg is truly commendable, and we salute their efforts. Our experience with the WEL ladies at the Gurudwara was spiritually enriching and unforgettable. Participating in food preparation with the Gurudwara community was deeply moving, especially the heartfelt felicitation by Mr. Sethi.
This year, WEL organized a Diwali charity event for underprivileged women in South Africa. Ms. Pamela Sethi’s prompt and enthusiastic support was instrumental in the event’s success. We at WEL are eager to maintain and strengthen our bond with the Gurudwara Sahib Sandton.’