The Indian Army has steered the introduction of millet flour into the rations provided to soldiers and has sent a proposal to the government in this regard.
New Delhi ,UPDATED: Mar 22, 2023 23:37 IST
Advisories have been issued to prepare dishes from millets in functions, barakhanas, canteens and in home-cooking. (Representative photo/Getty)
By Manjeet Negi: With a view to promote consumption of millets after the United Nations declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets following India’s suggestion, the Indian Army has steered the introduction of millet flour into the rations provided to soldiers.
This landmark decision will ensure troops are supplied with native and traditional grains after over half a century as the supply of millet flour was discontinued in favour of wheat flour.
Sources in the Indian Army said traditional millet foods with proven health benefits and suited to geographical and climatic conditions would be a vital step in mitigating lifestyle diseases of soldiers. Millets would now form an integral part of the daily meal for soldiers and officers of all ranks.
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According to sources, approval has been sought from the government to procure millet flour not exceeding 25 per cent of the authorised entitlement of cereals (rice and wheat flour) in rations for troops starting from this fiscal. Procurement and supply will be based on option exercised and quantity demanded.
Three popular varieties of millet flour–bajra, jowar and ragi–will be issued to troops duly considering preference. Millets have the benefit of being a good source of proteins, micro-nutrients and phyto-chemicals, thus boosting the nutritional profile of soldier’s diet.
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In addition, advisories have been issued for millets to be extensively used in functions, barakhanas, canteens and in home-cooking.
Centralised training of chefs is being undertaken to prepare wholesome, tasty and nutritious dishes with millets. Special emphasis is being laid on introducing value-added millet items and snacks to troops deployed along the northern borders.
Millet foods are being introduced through CSD canteens as well as dedicated corners are being set up in shopping complexes. ‘Know your Millet’ awareness campaigns are also being conducted in educational institutions.
