Millets and pseudocereals: A treasure for climate resilient agriculture ensuring food and nutrition security

Abstract

Once, a staple food for civilizations and a popular feed for centuries, millets are a treasure trove of micronutrients and essential amino acids. Despite being side-lined during the Green Revolution, these small-seeded powerhouses are perfectly adapted to harsh dryland conditions such as low rainfall, drought, and high temperatures. The millets require minimal maintenance and thrive under stress, showcasing their rich genetic diversity and adaptability. However, boosting genetic gain and developing high-yielding varieties remains a challenge due to restricted research, limited genomic tools, poor market demand and accessibility to germplasm. As our climate and cropping systems are changing, millets offer a promising solution for diversification and adaptation. Beyond their impressive nutrition, they possess therapeutic benefits, making them valuable for medicinal purposes. However, the cultivation of millets, especially the minor millets, has declined due to their underutilization in daily diets. Genetic improvement and application of modern technologies are needed to increase production and integrate these millets as alternative food sources in Indian cuisine. Fortunately, growing awareness of their nutritional value, health benefits, and industrial uses is fuelling a revival. Recognizing their potential, national and international organizations are working to restore millet cultivation. The United Nations even declared 2023 as the “International Year of Millets" at Indian initiative. This review highlights the progress made in the genetic improvement of both major (sorghum, pearl millet, finger millet) and minor millets (foxtail, proso, kodo, barnyard, little and browntop millets). Additionally, pseudo-cereals like buckwheat and amaranth are included. The areas of future research have also been indicated for urgent attention and immediate action to make millets and pseudo-cereals a household food ensuring food and nutrition security and climate resilient agriculture in India.