Tamil Nadu Government Promotes High Yielding Varieties of Millets to Encourage Farmers

Tamil Nadu's Agriculture Minister, MRK Panneerselvam, announced on Wednesday that the state government has established a target to produce 38.2 lakh metric tonnes of millets. This initiative aims to promote high-yielding varieties of millets that offer better profits for farmers. Currently, millets are cultivated across 10 lakh hectares in Tamil Nadu, and the government intends to increase production through the introduction of improved varieties. To support this mission, the state government has allocated a fund of Rs 82 crore.

Minister Panneerselvam made these remarks during the inauguration of the International Millets Conference and Futuristic Expo 2023, which commemorates the centennial year of millets research (1923-2023) and the International Year of Millets at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU).

Highlighting the nutritional value of millets in the human diet, Panneerselvam emphasized the government's commitment to promoting millet cultivation. The millet expo serves as a platform to raise awareness among farmers about the benefits and potential of millet production.

In addition to the millet production target, Minister Panneerselvam also announced that the government has decided to increase the number of students sent abroad for research in universities. Based on academic merit, students will have the opportunity to receive training in countries such as South Africa, Canada, and Dubai. The initiative provides students with exposure to new technologies, and the state government has allocated Rs 15 crore for this project.

Regarding the demand by farmers' associations to allow toddy tapping, Minister Panneerselvam stated that it is a policy decision that will be addressed by the government.

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The event at TNAU saw the participation of Vice Chancellor V Geethalakshmi, renowned scientists, students, and farmers, all coming together to celebrate the significance of millets in agriculture and explore the future prospects of this crop.

The Tamil Nadu government's ambitious target to produce 38.2 lakh metric tonnes of millet showcases its commitment to enhancing agricultural practices and promoting the cultivation of nutritious crops. By introducing high-yielding varieties and providing financial support, the government aims to boost farmer income and create awareness about the benefits of millet cultivation. The initiatives undertaken by the government, including the international research program and the millet expo, reflect its dedication to advancing agricultural development in the state.

source-DT Next

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