Millets Magic: Kerala’s New Cafes!

17 Oct 2023

Millets Magic: Kerala’s New Cafes!

Kerala is embracing a healthy and sustainable future with the introduction of 'Millet Cafes' in every district. This initiative aims to popularise millets, a nutritious grain, known for its myriad health benefits.

Millet Cafes are not just a destination to relish delightful foods but also a hub to learn and explore the wonders of millets.
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Millets Taking the Centre Stage
In 2023, millets are in the spotlight! Minister P. Prasad and the Kerala Agriculture Department are leading the way. They are working hard to include millet in the daily meals of people living in Kerala. Guess what? Cafes serving foods made from millets will open too!

Step by step, these cafes will welcome visitors. Each one will have a yummy selection of millet foods like biscuits, cakes, dosas, and other snacks. These tasty treats will fill the shelves and menus. So, every bite will be a delight!

Isn’t that exciting? We’ll get to enjoy healthy and delicious millet foods. Yum!
A Collaborative Effort
The ‘Krishikootam’ collectives and farmer producer organisations (FPO) are entrusted to open these cafes under the Poshaka Samriddhi Mission. Every district is set to have at least one cafe. The first ‘Millet Cafe,’ initiated by Kudumbashree, welcomed visitors in Attappady, Palakkad, in 2022, marking the beginning of this wholesome journey.
Celebrating the International Year of Millets
The Revival of Millet Cultivation
The year 2023 is not just another year for Kerala; it is the International Year of Millets. After witnessing a decline in millet production since the early 2000s, the trend has reversed. The rise is evident, especially in the production of ragi (finger millet), showcasing an inspiring comeback of millets in the state.
An Ambitious Plan
In August, an ambitious plan was unveiled by the Agriculture Department to bolster millet production to 3000 tonnes per annum under the Poshaka Samriddhi Mission. This initiative echoes the collective effort to rekindle the love for millets among the people of Kerala and beyond.
Partnership for Growth
On a promising Friday, a significant step was taken to fortify the burgeoning millet sector. An MoU was inked with the Hyderabad-based ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR). This partnership is envisioned to impart technical assistance and foster the growth of the Millet Cafe project.
A Glimpse into the Future
A Healthy Alternative
Millets are carving a niche in the hearts of the people of Kerala. As these grains are rich in nutrients, the establishment of Millet Cafes promises a future where health and taste coalesce. Every dish, crafted meticulously with millets, promises not just a burst of flavors but also a basket of health benefits.
Uniting Cities and Districts
From the scenic landscapes of Attappady in Palakkad to the bustling districts across Kerala, millets are on a journey to unite people in health. The cafes, with the aroma of millet-based foods, are set to be landmarks of a healthy lifestyle, a testament to the state’s commitment to wellbeing.
The Road Ahead

With the support of IIMR and the hard work of Kerala’s Agriculture Department, as well as the help of the local community, we believe that millets have a bright future in our region. Soon, there will be a big change. Millets won't just be something we eat; they will be a big part of our healthy and happy lives.

Every time we eat food made with millets, it's like taking a step into a world where everyone is healthy and happy every day. In this world, all parts of Kerala are connected, sharing the goodness of millets with one another. It's a place where old traditions are celebrated and new ones begin, with every meal reminding us of our journey to health and happine

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Kerala is embracing a healthy and sustainable future with the introduction of ‘Millet Cafes’ in every district. This initiative aims to popularise millets, a nutritious […]

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