The Goethe University of Germany will join hands with Utkal University to boost the production of the nutrient-rich millets. With the least water consumption, low carbon footprint, and the fact that millets can be grown even during drought conditions, the millets are referred to as climate-friendly crops, said Prof. Roland Hardenberg of Fresenius Institute at Goethe University here on Monday.
Delivering a lecture on ‘Food Sovereignty, Food Security and Religion in Odisha and Beyond’ organised by Utkal University’s International Office, Prof. Roland said his research on tribals of Koraput and Rayagada and their food pattern prompted him to improve nutrition at the household level through the revival of millets in farms and on plates of tribal communities in Odisha.
Vice-Chancellor of Utkal University Prof. Sabita Acharya said efforts to collaborate with foreign universities and bringing the Professors to this institution will benefit research scholars and faculty members of Odisha. While the Vice-Chancellor introduced Prof. Roland, Prof. Sanjay Kumar Sarangi coordinated the programme. Vote of thanks was given by Dr. Chinmay Pradhan.
Meanwhile, Odisha government on Monday also celebrated ‘Millets Divas’. Recently, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has approved celebration of ‘Millets Divas’ on the first Thursday of the Hindu month of Margasira (November). The primary aim of celebrating the day is to promote ‘mandia’ or millets as a highly nutritive and eco-friendly food product.
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