Sustainable Farming and Soil Health Enhancement through Millet Cultivation: A Review
Sumit Raj *
Department of Soil Conservation and Water Management, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology University in Kanpur-02, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Sagar Chaudhary
Amar Singh PG College, Lakhaoti (BSR), UP, India.
Nanasaheb Shahadev Ghule
Department of Agronomy Post Graduate Institute, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, India.
Kirttiranjan Baral
ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Telangana, Hyderabad-500030, India.
Smruti Ranjan Padhan
Division of Agronomy, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110012, India.
Kunal Nitin Gawande
Section of Agronomy, M. W. College of Agriculture, Yavatmal, Maharashtra Dr. Punjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidhyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra, India.
Vikash Singh
Department of Agronomy, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Historically integral to Indian agriculture, millets are experiencing resurgence, driven by their adaptability to harsh climatic conditions and minimal resource requirements. The article explores the significant benefits of millets in soil nutrient management, demonstrating their ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils while contributing to soil fertility through organic matter addition and improved soil structure. The integration of millets in crop rotation and intercropping systems is highlighted as a sustainable practice that enhances soil biodiversity and reduces the reliance on chemical inputs. A key environmental benefit of millet cultivation is its low water requirement and drought resistance, crucial in water-scarce regions, making it a strategic crop for adapting to climate change. Also examines the socio-economic impacts of millet cultivation. In rural areas, millets play a vital role in livelihoods by providing a sustainable food source and income generation, particularly in marginal environments. However, challenges in market accessibility and supply chain inefficiencies pose significant hurdles. Increasing consumer awareness and acceptance of millets, once considered traditional or 'poor man’s food', is critical for reviving their cultivation. This is complemented by emerging research and technologies in millet cultivation, focused on developing improved varieties and precision agriculture techniques tailored to the needs of millet farming. The potential for scaling up millet cultivation is immense, particularly in regions facing environmental constraints. The article emphasizes the integration of millets into global sustainable farming strategies, aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals. This integration is supported by international organizations advocating for millets in agricultural policies and programs. In conclusion, the review underscores the importance of millets in the context of global food security and sustainable agriculture. The growing importance of millets backed by research, policy support, and market trends, positions them as a key crop in the quest for a sustainable and resilient agricultural future.
Keywords: Millets, sustainability, biodiversity, nutrition, Drought-resistance