High Commissioner’s Remarks at the Celebration of
International Year of Millets 2023
21 May 2023

Honorable Minister of Food of Bangladesh,
His Excellency Sadhan Chandra Majumder

United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization Representative,
Mr. Robert D. Simpson

Dr. Mirza Hasannuzzaman, Professor, Department of Agronomy, Sher-e-Bangla Agriculture University

All distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen:

  I am delighted to be here today as we gather to commemorate the International Year of Millets. This year holds immense importance for us as it celebrates the virtues of these incredible small-seeded grains that have nourished civilizations for centuries.

 2. Millets have been an integral part of our diet for centuries. In addition to a plethora of health benefits, millets are also good for the environment with lower water and input requirement. With the aim to create awareness, and to increase production and consumption of millets across the world, the United Nations, at the behest of the Government of India, declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets.

 3. India and Bangladesh, both agrarian economies, face similar challenges in ensuring food security, addressing nutritional issues, and adapting to the impact of climate change. Millets – with their inherent resilience – offer a sustainable solution. They require less water, withstand harsh climates, and provide substantial nutritional benefits.

 4. By embracing millets, we not only promote sustainable agricultural practices but also address the nutritional needs of our populations. And not just that… Millets are also of great value in empowering small and marginal farmers who have limited resources and access to agricultural inputs, particularly those living in harsher climatic conditions.

 5. So, millets truly have multidimensional virtues – be it nutritional, environmental, or socio-economic. It is an all-rounder grain. We can call them without any exaggeration, the “Mighty Millets”.

 6. Today, by celebrating the International Year of Millets here in Dhaka, India and Bangladesh are taking a collective step forward in strengthening our agricultural ties. This occasion presents us with an opportunity to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and collaborate in research and development initiatives related to millet cultivation, processing, and value addition.

 7. Our joint efforts in promoting millets will also contribute to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. By enhancing millet production and consumption, we can alleviate poverty, ensure food and nutrition security, foster rural development, and promote gender equality.

 8. It is heartening to witness the growing interest and enthusiasm among our farmers, entrepreneurs, and consumers towards millets. By creating awareness, facilitating access to markets, and integrating millets into public distribution systems, we can create a sustainable market ecosystem that benefits both producers and consumers. This will pave the way for improved livelihoods and economic empowerment of our farming communities.

 9. In this endeavor, the High Commission of India in Bangladesh will be happy to facilitate collaborations, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing platforms between Indian and Bangladeshi stakeholders. We aim to foster an environment of exchange and learning that can catalyze the growth of millet-based enterprises, boost agricultural productivity, and promote healthier dietary choices.

 10. As we celebrate the International Year of Millets, let us reaffirm our commitment to sustainable agriculture, food security, and the well-being of our people. Together, India and Bangladesh can lead the way in harnessing the power of millets to build a brighter and more prosperous future for our nations.

 11. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Food Minister of Bangladesh and to all our distinguished guests, participants, organizers, and supporters who have joined us today. Let us work to promote millets to bring prosperity, health, and empowerment to our people.

Thank you!

Joy Bangla, Jai Hind!
Long Live India-Bangladesh Friendship!