Revitalizing Agriculture Extension Services for Millets: A Comprehensive Review of Strategies, Challenges, and Innovations
Neelam Jaiswal
Department of Agricultural extension, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India.
Kammara Meghalatha *
Department of Agriculture Entomology, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Toran Lal Nishad
College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Azlan Khan
College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Dileep Kumar Jatav
College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This review paper highlights the importance of millets in addressing agrarian and nutritional challenges and the need to revitalize millet agriculture extension services. The paper discusses the nutritional, environmental, and economic significance of millets and the common challenges faced by millet farmers, such as low yields, pest and disease management, and market access. The review also defines and explains the role of agricultural extension services in promoting millet farming practices and discusses traditional and contemporary extension approaches, such as farmer training, knowledge-sharing platforms, and digital technology. The paper evaluates the effectiveness of government policies and programs aimed at supporting millet cultivation and provides case studies of regions or communities where successful millet extension services have made a significant impact. The review concludes that revitalizing millet agriculture extension services is crucial for promoting sustainable millet farming practices and improving the livelihoods of millet farmers. By embracing millets as a staple crop, we can enhance agricultural diversity, mitigate the impact of climate change, and foster sustainable food systems.
Keywords: Staple crop, farming practices, sustainable food systems, agricultural extension services