District-Level Millet Day and Food Exhibition Celebrated in Khordha
By Prasanna Kumar Paikaray
Khordha, Nov. 14: A district-level Millet Day and food exhibition were held today at the District Information and Public Relations Office in Khordha, under the leadership of the Chief District Agriculture Officer (CDAO). The event, designed to raise awareness about the benefits of millet, was inaugurated by esteemed guests, including MLA of Jayadeva Constituency Naba Kishore Mallick, Zilla Parishad President Mrs. Rupa Shree Rani Gumansingh, Zilla Parishad Vice-President Gopinath Maharana, Collector Chanchal Rana, Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Parishad Jyoti Shankar Sahu, and Chairman of Khordha Municipality Kanak Lakshmi Mohanty.
During the event, millet was highlighted as an ancient and nutritious grain with significant health benefits. Emphasizing its importance, MLA Mallick encouraged the district administration to further promote millet cultivation and consumption within Khordha. He noted the ongoing support provided by the state government, which has led to increased interest among local farmers.
Collector Chanchal Rana reassured farmers that efforts are underway to ensure they receive fair prices for their millet crops. Other speakers, including notable local farmers, shared insights into millet’s historical significance and health benefits. Farmer Mohan Bhujbal spoke about his positive experiences with millet farming and the advantages it has brought him.
In addition to speeches, students participated in competitions, including essay writing, speeches, and general knowledge contests on millet. Prize distribution for the winners followed, accompanied by cultural performances that further promoted awareness of millet farming methods.
The event saw over 2,000 farmers in attendance from various district blocks. The program was coordinated by BTM Sunita Mohapatra from Bhubaneswar Block, with support from District Agriculture Department members ADO Pradeep Kumar Panda, ADO Manoranjan Raul, Monaranjan Mishra from Tangi Block, and Assistant Agriculture Officers Madhusmita Satpathy and Pallavi Sahu.
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Photograph: Collector Chanchal Rana trying some millet dishes at the exhibition.
