Dr. Nagaraja T. E., Professor (Plant Breeding), University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, talks about millets breeding.
Millets are small grained cereals grown in 131 countries across the globe. Pearl millet and sorghum are major millets and finger millet, foxtail millet, kodo millet, little millet, proso millet, barnyard millet, and browntop millet are considered as small millets. The millets are traditional food for 59 crores people in the world. These crops are eco-friendly and less attacked by pests and diseases. They are hardy crops, and physiologically very efficient. Even in adverse conditions, we get seeds with reliable harvest. They are nutritionally rich and integral part of local food traditions.
Small millets are regionally important crops. Barnyard millet, kodo millet, and little millet are originated from India. The major millet growing states includes Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and Andhra Pradesh. Little millet is predominantly grown in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh. Kodo millet is cultivated in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and in some places of Karnataka. Barnyard millet is grown in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and North- Eastern states. Foxtail millet is the major crop in north Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. Proso millet is grown in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, while browntop millet is grown in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh. Pearl millet, sorghum, and finger millet are majorly grown in India, with productivity highest in finger millet followed by pearl millet.
Africa is leading in millet cultivation covering 488 lakhs` hectares. In India, 138 lakhs hectares are being used for millet cultivation. But now the area for millet cultivation has reduced, but productivity has increased due to development of high yielding varieties to help farming community. Till 1970, about 20% of the food grain basket was given to millets which has reduced to 6% now. Though there is a steep decrease in area under millet cultivation, due to increase in productivity, there is no reduction in the production. This decline is due to poor policy support and policy favourable to commercial crops like rice, soya bean, sunflower and other crops. The preference of food consumption in the urban areas is different as they prefer ready to eat food products and easily available rice and wheat products. There is a social stigma attached to use of millets. India is leading in kodo millet, little millet, and barnyard millet production among the Asian countries. In terms of overall production, pearl millet ranks first, followed by sorghum, and then finger millet. Karnataka is at the forefront of jowar (sorghum) and ragi (finger millet) cultivation. Unlike rice, which is an energy-intensive crop, millets require less energy and emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases, offering a clear advantage to millet growers.
Karnataka is leading in research and development of finger millet. In VC Farm, Mandya, the first research station was established, and in 1918 the first variety, H22 was released. They collected samples from many local cultivars in and around Chamarajanagar, Mysore, and some areas of Bangalore, purified, and released. H 22 was the first variety for testing in the farmers’ field. Between 1930 and 1951s, contact method of crossing was followed in highly self-pollinated finger millet crop with tiny flowers to develop high yielding varieties. The efforts to improve small millets began as early as 1954, leading to the development of numerous varieties, including kodo millet and CO 1 in proso millet. So far, 143 varieties of finger millet have been released, with a germplasm collection of 4,448 accessions at UAS, Bangalore. These germplasm collections will be rejuvenated and evaluated as needed and distribute them to those who require them. The varieties such as Aruna, Udaya, Poorna, Annapurna, and Cauvery were developed by following hybridization techniques. Later, samples from Africa were brought to India for hybridization, leading to the creation of the Indaf series of varieties. From 1986 to 2006, the focus was primarily on improving yield. This period witnessed the development of varieties like MR 1, which met farmers' needs for both grain and fodder. Later, The University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, developed MR 2, and MR 6 which became renowned as the best variety for dual purpose.
The focus on millet research has shifted to enhancing traits like lodging resistance, fodder quality, and disease and pest resistance, with an added emphasis on bio-fortification to improve zinc, iron, and calcium content in grains. During 2022, UAS, Bangalore has released KMR 316, a variety that offers higher fodder yield along with increased calcium and iron content.
Some characteristics like lodging, fodder yield, disease and pest resistance became the main focus of research and giving importance to bio-fortification with improved zinc, iron, and calcium content, KMR 316 was released that gives higher fodder yield, high calcium and iron content. UAS, Bangalore has released many varieties in finger millet, kodo millet, proso millet and others. Maintained and rejuvenated germplasm accessions. Currently, research work related to millet is in progress at the project coordinating Unit, which aims to produce many more varieties for the farming community. Production and productivity are very important in small millet cropping systems to enhance the soil nutrients. Intercropping and mixed cropping can be done. Millets with pigeon pea or soya bean or field bean, or oil seeds help the farming community with better yield. VC Farm, Mandya, has developed five key technologies for insect and pest protection, alongside emphasizing the importance of organic nutrient management. In total of 21 technologies were developed to support the farming community. In browntop millet GPUBT 2, Foxtail millet; GPUF 3, little millet; GUPL 6 and Proso millet; GPUP 28 have been released during 2022-23 at state level and recommended for cultivation in Zone V and Zone VI of Karnataka state. The proso millet variety GPUP 28 is characteristics with medium duration and matures in 85 days and moderately resistance to leaf blight and brown spot diseases. Little millet variety GPUL 6 is high yielding, and moderate resistant to leaf blight and brown spot disease. Foxtail millet variety GPUF 3 is dual purpose variety with high grain and fodder yield. Browntop millet variety GPUBT 2 is called as Dundu korale and resistant to leaf blight disease, and the first variety from UAS, Bangalore.
Although many varieties have been released, some are still awaiting notification and approval from the Central Variety Committee. For instance, little millet variety GPUL 11 is known for its high yield, producing 15 to 20 quintals per hectare. Its arch-shaped inflorescence helps reduce damage from birds, and it is resistant to leaf spot and leaf blight diseases. Additionally, GPUL 11 is rich in iron and protein content. In general, proso millet cultivation is limited due to bird damage. To address this, we have developed Proso millet variety GPUP 32 that has intermediate compact inflorescences with a diffused shape, making it more difficult for birds to perch on them and it also offers excellent yield with a medium-term maturity. Nutri cereals align with sustainable development goals such as zero hunger, good health, and well-being. They are beneficial for the planet, with lower greenhouse gas emissions, minimal fertilizer and pesticide use, reduced water requirements, and versatile applications as food, fodder, and bio-fuel.
To enhance production and productivity, several strategies should be employed, including the development of improved cultivars, varieties, and hybrids. Value addition is also a crucial area for focus. Raising awareness about the benefits of millets is essential, as is establishing a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for small millets to support farmers. Ensuring the availability of high-quality seeds is key to boost productivity. Promoting millet consumption by highlighting its nutritional benefits is important for increasing its acceptance in diets. The National Food Security Mission Program can play a significant role in ensuring quality seed availability across millet-growing regions. High-yielding millet varieties should be supplied through seed hubs and State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), with bio-fortification receiving due emphasis.
Challenges include the need for better management responses to acquire more germplasm, evaluate it, and develop future breeding materials. Reducing pesticide use and developing varieties that can withstand environmental fluctuations are also critical. Mechanization remains a challenge for farmers, though small machines are now being provided to assist them.
Millets are highly climate-resilient and often high-yielding, yet there is significant potential to fully exploit their genetic capabilities. Recent advances have led to increased yields and enhanced nutritional profiles, with millets offering high levels of calcium and protein, as well as a rich array of essential amino acids. They also feature a low glycemic index, which is beneficial for health. Promoting poly culture alongside monoculture is essential for sustainable agriculture, and raising awareness about biodiversity is crucial for adapting to environmental changes. It is important to Shift public attitudes towards millet consumption and redesigning policies to support effective biodiversity conservation. Subsidies and support for high-level research, nutritional profiling, and backward integration are necessary to enhance millet production. Understanding aspects such as digestibility, bioavailability, and glycemic index is important. There is a need to develop varieties rich in micro nutrients like calcium, zinc, magnesium, and iron. To attract consumers, improvements in value addition, machinery, branding, labelling, and packaging are vital. Our goals include developing varieties resistant to shoot fly, improving yield potential in finger millet, and creating genomic resources and allele mining for small millet genetic resources. Additionally, ICAR-AICRP on Small millets aims to enhance the nutritional quality of both grain and fodder. Strategies for vertical and horizontal expansion of production, including the development of short-duration varieties, incentivizing cultivation, and improving agronomy, are also being planned.
How do climate change and hanging agriculture practices affect millet breeding efforts?
Millets are highly resilient to climate variations. For example, while foxtail millet may not thrive in all regions, it performs exceptionally well during the summer season. Generally, millets are well-suited to summer conditions and require minimal water. However, excessive moisture or rainfall can lead to grain deterioration. Overall, climate changes have a minimal impact on millets, making them a robust crop choice.
What are the successful millet breeding programs and their impact on Agri productivity and food security? What are the parameters of organic millets?
ICAR-AICRP on Small millets has focused significantly on finger millet, especially in Karnataka, where for many years our efforts were exclusively on ragi. Initially, only 26,000 hectares were allocated for millets, and farmers primarily used existing cultivars. However, we've now developed high-yielding finger millet varieties and expanded their availability to different regions. Yield levels for ragi have greatly improved, and farmers are increasingly requesting varieties like MR 1 and MR 6 for both high yield and fodder. Farmers are pleased with these varieties, and we've also provided short-duration options to meet their needs. We're working on developing varieties suited for the winter season. MR 6, in particular, is recommended for its fodder quality. The adoption of our improved varieties has significantly increased yield levels. Additionally, Indaf varieties are known for their cold tolerance. Millets are disease and pest resistant, require minimal fertilizer—comparable to organic standards—and have multiple benefits. We have committees and university programs dedicated to advancing organic practices in millet cultivation.
Any emerging technologies or techniques such as genomics and marker assisted breeding being used in millet breeding? How can small holder farmer benefit from improved millet varieties, and what are the challenges in getting the varieties to them?
We have state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced technologies. One notable example is ML 365, a finger millet variety developed through marker-assisted selection. Our labs enable us to identify and cultivate plants under controlled conditions and then transition them to field conditions, simplifying the selection process with cutting-edge technologies. Our research includes sequencing the genomes of different small millets to enhance traits such as fodder quality, protein content, disease resistance, and dust resistance. While ML 365 was developed for selection purposes and not gene research, we employ various advanced techniques in our work. For small farmers, our varieties are designed to thrive with minimal irrigation and it can significantly increase yield. We encourage farmers to explore value addition opportunities, collaborate with companies specializing in this area, and engage in marketing efforts. By being more proactive in production, value addition, branding, and marketing, small farmers can maximize the benefits of millet cultivation and achieve greater returns.
CONTACT : Dr. Nagaraja T. E
Professor (Plant Breeding)
University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore
Email: tenagaraja@gmail.com
Millets are small grained cereals grown in 131 countries across the globe. Pearl millet and sorghum are major millets and finger millet, foxtail millet, kodo millet, little millet, proso millet, barnyard millet, and browntop millet are considered as small millets. The millets are traditional food for 59 crores people in the world. These crops are eco-friendly and less attacked by pests and diseases. They are hardy crops, and physiologically very efficient. Even in adverse conditions, we get seeds with reliable harvest. They are nutritionally rich and integral part of local food traditions.
Small millets are regionally important crops. Barnyard millet, kodo millet, and little millet are originated from India. The major millet growing states includes Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and Andhra Pradesh. Little millet is predominantly grown in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh. Kodo millet is cultivated in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and in some places of Karnataka. Barnyard millet is grown in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and North- Eastern states. Foxtail millet is the major crop in north Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. Proso millet is grown in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, while browntop millet is grown in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh. Pearl millet, sorghum, and finger millet are majorly grown in India, with productivity highest in finger millet followed by pearl millet.
Africa is leading in millet cultivation covering 488 lakhs` hectares. In India, 138 lakhs hectares are being used for millet cultivation. But now the area for millet cultivation has reduced, but productivity has increased due to development of high yielding varieties to help farming community. Till 1970, about 20% of the food grain basket was given to millets which has reduced to 6% now. Though there is a steep decrease in area under millet cultivation, due to increase in productivity, there is no reduction in the production. This decline is due to poor policy support and policy favourable to commercial crops like rice, soya bean, sunflower and other crops. The preference of food consumption in the urban areas is different as they prefer ready to eat food products and easily available rice and wheat products. There is a social stigma attached to use of millets. India is leading in kodo millet, little millet, and barnyard millet production among the Asian countries. In terms of overall production, pearl millet ranks first, followed by sorghum, and then finger millet. Karnataka is at the forefront of jowar (sorghum) and ragi (finger millet) cultivation. Unlike rice, which is an energy-intensive crop, millets require less energy and emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases, offering a clear advantage to millet growers.
Karnataka is leading in research and development of finger millet. In VC Farm, Mandya, the first research station was established, and in 1918 the first variety, H22 was released. They collected samples from many local cultivars in and around Chamarajanagar, Mysore, and some areas of Bangalore, purified, and released. H 22 was the first variety for testing in the farmers’ field. Between 1930 and 1951s, contact method of crossing was followed in highly self-pollinated finger millet crop with tiny flowers to develop high yielding varieties. The efforts to improve small millets began as early as 1954, leading to the development of numerous varieties, including kodo millet and CO 1 in proso millet. So far, 143 varieties of finger millet have been released, with a germplasm collection of 4,448 accessions at UAS, Bangalore. These germplasm collections will be rejuvenated and evaluated as needed and distribute them to those who require them. The varieties such as Aruna, Udaya, Poorna, Annapurna, and Cauvery were developed by following hybridization techniques. Later, samples from Africa were brought to India for hybridization, leading to the creation of the Indaf series of varieties. From 1986 to 2006, the focus was primarily on improving yield. This period witnessed the development of varieties like MR 1, which met farmers' needs for both grain and fodder. Later, The University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, developed MR 2, and MR 6 which became renowned as the best variety for dual purpose.
The focus on millet research has shifted to enhancing traits like lodging resistance, fodder quality, and disease and pest resistance, with an added emphasis on bio-fortification to improve zinc, iron, and calcium content in grains. During 2022, UAS, Bangalore has released KMR 316, a variety that offers higher fodder yield along with increased calcium and iron content.
Some characteristics like lodging, fodder yield, disease and pest resistance became the main focus of research and giving importance to bio-fortification with improved zinc, iron, and calcium content, KMR 316 was released that gives higher fodder yield, high calcium and iron content. UAS, Bangalore has released many varieties in finger millet, kodo millet, proso millet and others. Maintained and rejuvenated germplasm accessions. Currently, research work related to millet is in progress at the project coordinating Unit, which aims to produce many more varieties for the farming community. Production and productivity are very important in small millet cropping systems to enhance the soil nutrients. Intercropping and mixed cropping can be done. Millets with pigeon pea or soya bean or field bean, or oil seeds help the farming community with better yield. VC Farm, Mandya, has developed five key technologies for insect and pest protection, alongside emphasizing the importance of organic nutrient management. In total of 21 technologies were developed to support the farming community. In browntop millet GPUBT 2, Foxtail millet; GPUF 3, little millet; GUPL 6 and Proso millet; GPUP 28 have been released during 2022-23 at state level and recommended for cultivation in Zone V and Zone VI of Karnataka state. The proso millet variety GPUP 28 is characteristics with medium duration and matures in 85 days and moderately resistance to leaf blight and brown spot diseases. Little millet variety GPUL 6 is high yielding, and moderate resistant to leaf blight and brown spot disease. Foxtail millet variety GPUF 3 is dual purpose variety with high grain and fodder yield. Browntop millet variety GPUBT 2 is called as Dundu korale and resistant to leaf blight disease, and the first variety from UAS, Bangalore.
Although many varieties have been released, some are still awaiting notification and approval from the Central Variety Committee. For instance, little millet variety GPUL 11 is known for its high yield, producing 15 to 20 quintals per hectare. Its arch-shaped inflorescence helps reduce damage from birds, and it is resistant to leaf spot and leaf blight diseases. Additionally, GPUL 11 is rich in iron and protein content. In general, proso millet cultivation is limited due to bird damage. To address this, we have developed Proso millet variety GPUP 32 that has intermediate compact inflorescences with a diffused shape, making it more difficult for birds to perch on them and it also offers excellent yield with a medium-term maturity. Nutri cereals align with sustainable development goals such as zero hunger, good health, and well-being. They are beneficial for the planet, with lower greenhouse gas emissions, minimal fertilizer and pesticide use, reduced water requirements, and versatile applications as food, fodder, and bio-fuel.
To enhance production and productivity, several strategies should be employed, including the development of improved cultivars, varieties, and hybrids. Value addition is also a crucial area for focus. Raising awareness about the benefits of millets is essential, as is establishing a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for small millets to support farmers. Ensuring the availability of high-quality seeds is key to boost productivity. Promoting millet consumption by highlighting its nutritional benefits is important for increasing its acceptance in diets. The National Food Security Mission Program can play a significant role in ensuring quality seed availability across millet-growing regions. High-yielding millet varieties should be supplied through seed hubs and State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), with bio-fortification receiving due emphasis.
Challenges include the need for better management responses to acquire more germplasm, evaluate it, and develop future breeding materials. Reducing pesticide use and developing varieties that can withstand environmental fluctuations are also critical. Mechanization remains a challenge for farmers, though small machines are now being provided to assist them.
Millets are highly climate-resilient and often high-yielding, yet there is significant potential to fully exploit their genetic capabilities. Recent advances have led to increased yields and enhanced nutritional profiles, with millets offering high levels of calcium and protein, as well as a rich array of essential amino acids. They also feature a low glycemic index, which is beneficial for health. Promoting poly culture alongside monoculture is essential for sustainable agriculture, and raising awareness about biodiversity is crucial for adapting to environmental changes. It is important to Shift public attitudes towards millet consumption and redesigning policies to support effective biodiversity conservation. Subsidies and support for high-level research, nutritional profiling, and backward integration are necessary to enhance millet production. Understanding aspects such as digestibility, bioavailability, and glycemic index is important. There is a need to develop varieties rich in micro nutrients like calcium, zinc, magnesium, and iron. To attract consumers, improvements in value addition, machinery, branding, labelling, and packaging are vital. Our goals include developing varieties resistant to shoot fly, improving yield potential in finger millet, and creating genomic resources and allele mining for small millet genetic resources. Additionally, ICAR-AICRP on Small millets aims to enhance the nutritional quality of both grain and fodder. Strategies for vertical and horizontal expansion of production, including the development of short-duration varieties, incentivizing cultivation, and improving agronomy, are also being planned.
How do climate change and hanging agriculture practices affect millet breeding efforts?
Millets are highly resilient to climate variations. For example, while foxtail millet may not thrive in all regions, it performs exceptionally well during the summer season. Generally, millets are well-suited to summer conditions and require minimal water. However, excessive moisture or rainfall can lead to grain deterioration. Overall, climate changes have a minimal impact on millets, making them a robust crop choice.
What are the successful millet breeding programs and their impact on Agri productivity and food security? What are the parameters of organic millets?
ICAR-AICRP on Small millets has focused significantly on finger millet, especially in Karnataka, where for many years our efforts were exclusively on ragi. Initially, only 26,000 hectares were allocated for millets, and farmers primarily used existing cultivars. However, we've now developed high-yielding finger millet varieties and expanded their availability to different regions. Yield levels for ragi have greatly improved, and farmers are increasingly requesting varieties like MR 1 and MR 6 for both high yield and fodder. Farmers are pleased with these varieties, and we've also provided short-duration options to meet their needs. We're working on developing varieties suited for the winter season. MR 6, in particular, is recommended for its fodder quality. The adoption of our improved varieties has significantly increased yield levels. Additionally, Indaf varieties are known for their cold tolerance. Millets are disease and pest resistant, require minimal fertilizer—comparable to organic standards—and have multiple benefits. We have committees and university programs dedicated to advancing organic practices in millet cultivation.
Any emerging technologies or techniques such as genomics and marker assisted breeding being used in millet breeding? How can small holder farmer benefit from improved millet varieties, and what are the challenges in getting the varieties to them?
We have state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced technologies. One notable example is ML 365, a finger millet variety developed through marker-assisted selection. Our labs enable us to identify and cultivate plants under controlled conditions and then transition them to field conditions, simplifying the selection process with cutting-edge technologies. Our research includes sequencing the genomes of different small millets to enhance traits such as fodder quality, protein content, disease resistance, and dust resistance. While ML 365 was developed for selection purposes and not gene research, we employ various advanced techniques in our work. For small farmers, our varieties are designed to thrive with minimal irrigation and it can significantly increase yield. We encourage farmers to explore value addition opportunities, collaborate with companies specializing in this area, and engage in marketing efforts. By being more proactive in production, value addition, branding, and marketing, small farmers can maximize the benefits of millet cultivation and achieve greater returns.
CONTACT : Dr. Nagaraja T. E
Professor (Plant Breeding)
University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore
Email: tenagaraja@gmail.com