Review on millets, with a focus on their nutritional benefits, agricultural significance and role in addressing global food security

Abstract

Millets, a group of small-seeded grasses belonging to the Poaceae family, have been cultivated for thousands of years. Historically regarded as a staple food in many parts of Asia and Africa, they are now being rediscovered globally due to their resilience, high nutritional value, and potential to address food security challenges. With increasing interest in sustainable agriculture and nutrition, millets are gaining recognition for their contributions to both food systems and health outcomes. Millets represent an important and often underutilized crop that holds great promise for improving global food security, enhancing nutrition, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Their resilience to drought, nutritional value, and low input requirements make them an ideal crop for addressing the challenges of climate change, food insecurity, and malnutrition. With increasing awareness and support from both governments and international organizations, millets could play a central role in building a more sustainable and nutritious global food system. Expanding millet cultivation, improving agronomic practices, and enhancing market demand will be key steps in realizing their full potential.

Key words – Millets, small-seeded grasses, Food Security