Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Dr. Rakesh Minhas on Wednesday inaugurated a Millet Restaurant in Pathwal, Kathua marking a significant milestone in the district's efforts to promote holistic agriculture development.
The Krishna Millet restaurant, run by a Women Self-Help Group (SHG), caters to all age groups, providing a unique opportunity for them to experience the nutritional benefits of millets.
The initiative is part of the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) 2024-25, aiming to encourage the consumption of nutri-cereal millets, such as Ragi and Jowar, which offer numerous health benefits.
It also aligns with the United Nations General Assembly's declaration of 2023 as the "International Year of Millet-2023". Dr. Minhas congratulated the SHG members on their initiative and urged others to extend support for the promotion of millets.
Accompanied by District Officers, including ADC Ranjit Singh, SDM Hiranagar Rakesh Kumar and CPO Kathua Ranjeet Singh Thakur, CAO Kathua Sanjeev Rai, Dr. Minhas emphasized the importance of promoting healthy living through sustainable agriculture practices.
Pertinently, the restaurant's operating hours are from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM, making it convenient for patrons to visit at their preferred time.
This schedule allows customers to enjoy a nutritious breakfast, lunch, or dinner, while supporting local women entrepreneurs and promoting sustainable agriculture.
The DC highlighted that Millets are good for health and also beneficial for farmers and environment friendly. The Millets are energy dense, drought resistant, with lower water requirements and can be grown with ease in Kandi areas and are less susceptible to pests.
Dr. Minhas further appealed to the public to visit the restaurant and savor the nutritious food, highlighting its benefits for health, environment, and climate.
"Millets require less water and are suitable for Kandi Areas, making them an ideal crop for our region," he added. Listing different government schemes, the DC urged the farming community to take advantage of subsidies offered by the Agriculture Department for millet cultivation and farm equipment procurement under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP).
He highlighted that two millet processing units are now operational in Kathua, addressing the challenge of processing millets, a hardy crop requiring special handling.
Notably, Kathua has emerged as a leading producer of millets, showcasing the district's potential in promoting this nutritious and climate-resilient crop.
The inauguration ceremony showcased the Kathua administration’s commitment to promoting holistic agriculture development, women empowerment and community well-being.
By supporting this initiative, the citizens can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future.