Gujarat CM Celebrates Millet Mahotsav, Emphasizing PM Modi’s “Back to Basics” Initiative

In a recent event in Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Back to Basics” approach by promoting the use of millets, also known as Shree Anna, and natural, cow-based farming practices. The event, inaugurated by Patel and attended by Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel along with other dignitaries, featured a variety of activities such as sales, exhibitions, and panel discussions focused on millets and natural farming.

During the two-day ‘Millet Mahotsav and Natural Farmer Market 2025’, which spanned seven municipal corporations in the state, the significance of coarse grains was emphasized not just as a nutritional food solution but also as a part of India’s cultural and agricultural heritage. The Chief Minister highlighted that while these grains were once mainly associated with low-income households, they have now become a staple in the diets of a broader demographic, including the affluent, and are even featured at major celebrations like weddings.

The event also marked the e-inauguration of several godown complexes by Gujarat State Seeds Corporation Limited, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing the agricultural supply chain. Special attention was given to the success of over 500 startups and the contributions of numerous Farmer Producer Organizations, with women from self-help groups leading efforts in producing millet-based products, thereby promoting self-reliance.

Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel added that millet farming benefits not only farmers and the environment but also consumers, given the nutritional value of millets which support health across all age groups. He recalled that the Prime Minister’s vision to declare 2023 as the 'International Year of Millets' has earned global recognition with endorsements from 72 countries, underlining the worldwide impact of this initiative.

The festival serves as a common platform for millet producers, natural farmers, organic food producers, and various organizations, offering visitors an engaging mix of sales-cum-exhibition stalls, training sessions, panel discussions, and cultural programs. The comprehensive initiative reflects a strategic push by both state and central governments to promote sustainable agricultural practices and underscore the economic and environmental benefits of millet cultivation.