Jammu, Sep 21 (IANS) J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that nature’s message is clear: limits cannot be crossed if humankind is to preserve the earth and itself.
Addressing the ‘Millets for Health’ seminar at Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, the J&K L-G urged the medical fraternity, scientists, farmers and citizens to make millets part of everyday life. Earlier in the day, he also spoke at a national dialogue on the Millets Mission organised by SKUAST, Jammu.
He said the GMC seminar was more than an academic exercise, describing it as a reminder of shared responsibility towards the earth, its water, farming families, villages and the health of every citizen.
“Nature’s message is clear that limits cannot be crossed, and millets offer a credible alternative,” he emphasised.
The J&K L-G underlined that millets are as old as Indian civilisation. Bajra, jowar, ragi, kodo, kutki, kangni and sanwa have sustained generations, grow with little water in harsh climates and need minimal chemical support.
Citing the 2018 ICMR report, he said non‑communicable diseases accounted for 61.8 per cent of all deaths in 2016, up from 37.09 per cent in 1990. He also referred to the National Family Health Survey, which recorded high blood pressure in 11 per cent of women and 15 per cent of men aged 15-49.
“These are not merely medical problems, but they directly affect family economic conditions, social life and national productivity. Greater inclusion of our traditional food, millets, can show us an important path towards disease prevention and a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
Highlighting their nutritional value, the J&K L-G said millets are rich in fibre, iron, calcium and other micronutrients. He noted that several research papers suggest millets have a relatively low glycaemic index and support heart health, cholesterol control and weight management.
“Looking at the research studies, I can say that millets impact the entire chain, from protecting individual health to conserving nature. With the cooperation of the medical fraternity, awareness about their benefits must reach every section of society,” he said.
Stressing the need to move from discussion to action, the J&K L-G appealed to farmers to diversify crops and to scientists to develop high‑yielding, climate‑suited varieties. He urged doctors and nutrition experts to create evidence‑based awareness about the role of millets in a balanced diet.
“I appeal to all citizens of Jammu and Kashmir to prioritise the nutritious and balanced food of millets over processed food. If we all move forward together, we can build a Jammu and Kashmir that ensures food security, safeguards citizens’ health, and also protects water, soil and the environment. Together, we should sow the seeds of health, sustainability and prosperity,” he said.
Padma Shri Khadar Vali, Ashutosh Gupta, Principal, GMC Jammu, Umendra Dutt, Executive Director, Kheti Virasat Mission, Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, senior officials, experts, faculty and students attended the seminar.
–IANS
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