Union min urges developing Ranchi as millet capital of the country

Ranchi: Union minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth on Saturday appealed to the agricultural scientists and farmers of the state to come forward and develop Ranchi as the millet capital of the country.Addressing the inaugural function of the three-day Agrotech Farmers’ Fair at Birsa Agricultural University (BAU), Seth said that his ministry is willing to sign an agreement with the varsity to ensure that biscuits and other millet products, which have been developed by the institute, are available in military canteens across the country.He also urged scientists to develop a nutritious food formula for soldiers who protect the nation’s borders even in temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius.

He claimed that, due to the inspiration and efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, production and consumption of ragi continuously increased over the past five years. Millet dishes are now becoming popular even in hotels and parties, he added.Agriculture minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey said the state govt launched the Madua Kranti Yojana, under which farmers cultivating madua (finger millet) receive an incentive of Rs 3,000 per acre.

She pointed out that in Telangana, within two years, the area under madua cultivation increased from 20,000 hectares to 1 lakh hectares, adding that Jharkhand should try to replicate this success.Kanke MLA Suresh Kumar Baitha emphasised strengthening advisory services and training programmes for farmers and rural people.On this occasion, 14 progressive farmers were honoured for their outstanding contributions in innovative farming and animal husbandry.