Marking the ‘International Year of Millets – 2023, the Indian Army organized a symposium titled “Millet March: Boosting Our Defenders with Millets” at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi Cantt on December 14, 2023. Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, led the proceedings, underscoring the potential of “Shree Annas” to revolutionize our food practices, safeguard the environment, and support farming communities. The symposium, facilitated by Headquarters Delhi Area, aimed to raise awareness about the advantages of millets.

Attended by representatives from all three services, including S Vijayarani from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and officials from the Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL) and Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, the event shed light on the historical significance of millets in soldiers’ diets. Although millets were part of troop rations until the early 1970s, their use declined with the increased availability of rice and wheat.

The DFRL has played a crucial role in tailoring millet products for a seamless “Farm to Kitchen” and “Kitchen to Fork” experience.

The symposium highlighted the benefits of including millets in daily diets and showcased the Army’s efforts in promoting millets through recipes, cooking competitions, and emphasizing their health advantages. The event concluded with a display of millet-based foods and snacks, specially curated by the Army Services Corps.