13 October 2026, Hyderabad
Millets offer opportunities not only for nutritional security but also for value addition, rural entrepreneurship and livelihood generation. With this vision, the ICAR–Indian Institute of Millets Research, Global Centre of Excellence on Millets (Shree Anna), Hyderabad, initiated a four-day training programme on “Millet Value Addition, Product Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development” for millet stakeholders from Odisha during 13 to 16 October 2026. The programme aims to strengthen the capabilities of Farmers and Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) representatives in transforming millet resources into quality products and exploring new avenues for enterprise development.
Dr C. Tara Satyavathi, Director, ICAR–IIMR, Hyderabad, inaugurated the training programme, highlighting the importance of strengthening the millet value chain through technology dissemination, skill development and entrepreneurship promotion. She emphasised the need to equip stakeholders with practical knowledge that can facilitate the adoption of improved technologies, encourage value addition and create opportunities for millet-based enterprises.
Emphasising the importance of field-based learning, practical demonstrations on production practices for ragi and little millet were conducted. The hands-on exposure enabled participants to understand important crop management techniques and gain knowledge that can be shared with farmers to encourage improved cultivation practices and enhance productivity. Post-harvest handling practices and methods for managing stored-grain pests in millets were also discussed, highlighting their importance in preserving grain quality and reducing storage losses.
The training also focuses on developing practical skills in millet processing and product innovation. Participants will receive hands-on exposure to preparing a variety of millet-based products, including chikki, nutrition bars, ragi laddoo, murukku, bakery products, pasta, vermicelli and malt. These demonstrations will familiarise them with different processing methods and product formulations, opening up possibilities for FPOs to diversify their offerings, make better use of locally available millet resources and explore new avenues for enterprise development.
Recognising that product development must be supported by effective marketing and quality assurance, the training also includes sessions on branding, marketing strategies, food standards, FSSAI requirements for product standardisation, packaging and labelling. These components will familiarise participants with the essential considerations involved in developing market-ready products, maintaining quality and presenting millet-based foods to consumers.
Through this initiative, ICAR–IIMR continues to strengthen the capacities of millet stakeholders by linking improved production practices with processing technologies, product development and entrepreneurship. The programme is expected to help farmers and FPOs identify opportunities for value addition, strengthen their business activities and expand market access, contributing to stronger millet-based enterprises and sustainable rural livelihoods in Odisha.
(Source: ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets, Hyderabad)
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