To meet the rising demand for Uttarakhand's millets, also known as Shri Anna, the state government plans to establish millet-based bakeries along the Chardham Yatra route and at major tourist destinations. This initiative will allow visiting pilgrims and tourists to connect directly with local products.
During a departmental review meeting on Friday, Rural Development Minister Ganesh Joshi instructed officials to develop and launch innovative bakery items like millet-based rusks and cakes. He stated that this will provide a better market for farmers and create new employment opportunities for the youth. The minister also emphasized the importance of branding and marketing for 'House of Himalayas' products and called for establishing site amenity centres in all districts to sell local goods made by self-help groups, thereby strengthening the rural economy.
165,000 Women Become 'Lakhpati Didis'
At the meeting, it was reported that 165,000 women associated with self-help groups in the state have become 'LakhpatiDidis' (women earning over one lakh rupees). Officials highlighted innovative local efforts, such as women's groups in Vikasnagar making biscuits from Mandua (finger millet) and Jhangora (barnyard millet), and groups in Haridwar creating biscuits from Singhara (water chestnut).
Other Key Decisions
The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) was also discussed, and it was decided that a joint meeting with the Agriculture Department will be held soon. Additionally, the minister reviewed upcoming programs for the Seva Pakhwada (service fortnight), a potential honorarium increase for block-level mission managers, and preparations for the Saras Mela (fair) in Udham Singh Nagar and Tehri districts.