Back in 2022, Government of India sponsored a proposal at the 75th Session of the General Assembly to recognize the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM). The proposal was unanimously supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), as well as the members of the General Assembly.
Bhutan celebrated IYM with a focus on ‘Millets for Mission LiFE’ at India House, Thimphu. It was a 6-day celebration that started on the 17th of March and concluded on Wednesday. Bhutanese dignitaries, senior government officials, business executives, chefs, representatives of civil society organizations, and members of the Indian community were present in large numbers.
Indian Ambassador to Bhutan Sudhakar Dalela highlighted the role of India in the global production and consumption of millets, introducing millets as a staple to diet in sync with the theme of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). The Indian Embassy in Bhutan tweeted, “Delightful array of millet dishes curated by Mrs. Himanshu Kapoor, Aum Kesang Choedon, and Hotel Taj Tashi Bhutan – foxtail salad & mousse, barnyard carrot halwa & kesari kheer, memja dengo (steamed millet dough), memja shamdey (millet mix), lom jaju (savoury soup), jowar chilla.” This celebration showcases the partnership India has with its neighbours in reviving the forgotten legacy of ‘Miracle Millets’.
