The ASEAN-India Millets Festival, held in the Indonesian capital, aims to promote millets as a farmer-friendly and sustainable food choice while creating a market for millet-based products among the ASEAN member states. Organized by the Indian Mission to ASEAN and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the five-day festival features a Millet-centric exhibition with participation from Millet-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), start-ups, and Indian chefs.
The festival aligns with the food security agenda discussed during the ASEAN-India Summit, demonstrating the effectiveness of the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and ASEAN. Millets are recognized as crucial elements for ensuring food security, addressing global hunger, and combating nutrient deficiencies.
The event highlights the environmental sustainability and economic benefits of millets in the face of climate change. Arief Prasetyo Adi, Head of the National Food Agency of Indonesia, emphasizes millets as a sustainable food choice for the future. The Millet Festival provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the nutritional, environmental, and economic advantages of millets and foster collaboration between ASEAN countries.
The Millet-centric exhibition showcases products from Indian FPOs and start-ups, including millet cookies, namkeen, khakhra, cakes, and more. This platform facilitates collaboration and celebrates cultural and culinary diversity while promoting sustainable millet practices for a healthier future.
Representatives from Indian and Indonesian companies share their experiences in the millet business, highlighting growing awareness and steady growth in demand for millet-based products. The live cooking workshop featuring celebrity chefs from India and Indonesia adds a dynamic element to the festival by showcasing the culinary potential of millets.
Overall, the ASEAN-India Millets Festival serves as a significant initiative to promote millets as a sustainable and nutritious food source, fostering collaboration and awareness among ASEAN member states.