Indian Army to reintroduce millets in rations of soldiers

• The Indian Army is set to reintroduce millets flour in the rations of soldiers
• It has sought the Union government sanction to procure millets flour not exceeding 25% of the authorised entitlement of cereals (rice and wheat flour), in rations for troops commencing from the financial year 2023-24 onwards.

Highlights

• Decision was taken with a view to promote consumption of millets in light of the UN declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
• Stating that procurement and issue will be based on option exercised and quantity demanded, the statement said three popular varieties of millets flour — bajra, jowar and ragi — will be issued to troops duly considering preference.
• Millet foods are being introduced through CSD (Canteen Stores Dept.) canteens as well as dedicated corners being set up in shopping complexes.

Prelims Take Away

• Millets
• Rabi and kharif Crops