International Year of Millets: All India Institute of Ayurveda introduces millet-based meals

New Delhi: All India Institute of Ayurveda introduced a new range of millet-based dishes in its canteen as a part of its healthy food offerings, marking the start of the new year 2023 as the ‘International year of millets’ in presence of Rural Development Minister, Giriraj Singh and MP Vijay Pal Singh Tomar were also present on the occasion.

Spearheaded by the Prime Minister, the Government of India sponsored the proposal for International Year of Millets (IYM) 2023 which was accepted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The declaration has been instrumental for the Government of India to be at the forefront of celebrating the IYM.

Giriraj Singh, Minister of Rural Development said, “Introduction of ‘Pathyahaar’ meal at the canteen has been a welcome step as this will expand the option of healthy foods that have been made available to the patients and scholars in AIIA.”

“It has been a tradition here to do something new at the start of the new year. So, in 2023, we have introduced a new range of healthy millet-based dishes in our canteen, which are healthier and more nutritious”, said Dr. (Professor) Tanuja Manoj Nesari, Director of All India Institute of Ayurveda.

Dishes such as Kodo Upma, Besan Chilla, Ragi Buttermilk, vegetable soup, Gajar ka halwa, Sothiyadi Laddu, Lauki ki Barfi, Jau Daliya, Pongal Khichda, Bajre ka Khichda were some of the items made available for the patrons of the canteen at All India Institute of Ayurveda.

Speaking about the benefits of millet-based foods, Professor (Dr) Medha S. Kulkarni, H.OD. Swasthyavritta department said, “Millet is a good source of protein, fibre, key vitamins, and minerals. The potential health benefits of millet include protecting cardiovascular health, preventing the onset of diabetes, helping people achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and managing inflammation in the gut. Millet is an adaptable grain.”

Impressed by the facilities at All India Institute of Ayurveda Hon. Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Giriraj Singh said that his ministry would soon introduce training programmes in ‘Panchakarma’ therapy of Ayurveda in the rural folds. This move, based on the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Health for all will also help in expanding self-employment opportunities in the rural sector.

A special Hawan and Dhanwantri Puja was also performed for the overall well-being of people on Monday and marked the beginning of Sneh Milan, the new year get-together of All India Institute of Ayurveda.

Professor Mahesh Vyas (Dean PhD), Professor Anand More (Dean PG), Joint Director Shri Umesh Tagde, Additional Medical Superintendent Yogesh Bhadve, Professor Medha Kulkarni and other professors and scholars were present on the occasion.