Millets are being promoted as “climate-smart crops.” Discuss how their cultivation can help address India’s water scarcity challenge.

Answer: Model Answer approach

Give a brief overview of millets and their history as a viable substitute for crops that require a lot of water.

• The grass family (Poaceae) includes the varied group of small-seeded cereal grains known as millets. They are ideal for drier climates since they are very versatile and use a lot less water than many other typical grains like rice and wheat. Sustainable and water-efficient crops are essential as water shortage becomes a serious concern throughout India, particularly in areas like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. In this regard, millets show great promise as a substitute for crops that require a lot of water, such as wheat and rice.

Body: Discuss the possible benefits of millets as a substitute for crops that require a lot of water as well as the policies that could promote their use.

Millets’ potential as a practical substitute for crops that require a lot of water:

• Millets such as finger millet and pearl millet require only 800-1000 liters of water per kilogram, but rice requires 2500-3000 liters. Significant water savings result from this reduction, especially in regions that are vulnerable to drought. For instance, farmers in Andhra Pradesh have effectively shifted to growing ragi, or finger millet, and have seen returns that are equivalent while saving more than 50% on water.
• Because millets have extensive root systems, they can draw moisture from deeper soil layers and are more resilient to dry spells. They are essential for areas with unpredictable rainfall patterns because of their flexibility.

Provide a forward-looking conclusion that includes some recommendations for increased millets’ acceptance.

• For areas of India with limited water supplies, millets provide a sustainable option. India can maximize the potential of these resilient crops by putting supportive legislation into place, making infrastructure investments, and increasing public awareness. It will increase farm income, guarantee food security, and advance a more sustainable agricultural system.

Practice Question

Question: “Mainstreaming millets in India’s Public Distribution System (PDS) can ensure both nutritional and water security.” Do you agree? Substantiate with arguments.

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