Odisha on Monday celebrated Mandia Divas, an annual observance held on November 10 to promote millet cultivation and emphasize its nutritional and environmental significance. Odisha is the first state in India to officially recognise and celebrate this day, underscoring its commitment to reviving traditional crops and supporting local farmers.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan attended the state-level celebrations and participated in awareness programmes aimed at boosting millet production. During his visit, he interacted with millet farmers and reviewed ongoing initiatives designed to strengthen millet-based farming systems across the state.
Officials stated that Mandia Divas serves as a crucial platform to encourage sustainable agriculture, improve rural livelihoods, and position Odisha as a national leader in India’s millet mission.
Minister Emphasises Nutritional and Ecological Benefits of Millets
Speaking to the media at Bhubaneswar Airport, Minister Chouhan highlighted the multiple health and environmental benefits of millets, locally known as mandia or Shri Anna millet.
“Mandia or Shri Anna millet is a grain that provides nourishment, strengthens health, and safeguards the environment,” Chouhan said. “It can be cultivated in low-fertility soils with minimal water and is ideal for ensuring sustainable farming. Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, continuous efforts are being made to promote millet cultivation. I congratulate the Odisha Government for celebrating Mandia Divas and leading India’s millet revolution.”
The Minister also reviewed discussions on key central initiatives, including the Pradhan Mantri Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, the Pulse Mission, and the National Mission on Natural Farming, aimed at integrating millet farming with broader sustainable agriculture strategies.
Odisha’s Leadership in Millet Promotion
Odisha’s observance of Mandia Divas reaffirms its pioneering role in encouraging farmers to adopt millet cultivation as part of climate-resilient and nutrition-rich farming practices. The state’s successful Odisha Millet Mission continues to inspire other states in strengthening food security, farmer incomes, and biodiversity.
