Kodo, Kutki, Millet conservation discussed in Agro Biodiversity Roundtable

  Kanha    Network for Conserving Central India (NCCI) organized its 4th Agrobiodiversity Roundtable at MPT Jungle Resort, Sarhi Gate, Kanha Tiger Reserve. The event was attended by representatives from various civil society organizations (CSOs), farmer producer organizations (FPOs), self-help groups (SHGs), research institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

The main objective of the roundtable was to discuss the conservation of drought-resistant millets like Kodo-Kutki in the Kanha landscape, their brand development, improving food security measures and integrating traditional knowledge into modern agronomy. The event was based on the findings of the earlier sessions held in August 2023, January 2024 and August 2024.

Key themes and discussions
Marketing strategies to promote the nutritional and ecological importance of millets were discussed.

Fungal contamination and food safety challenges – Dr. Manoj Chaudhary from Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Dr. Jegan Shekhar from MSSRF shared their views on this topic.

Brand Development Strategy – Dr. Oliver King of MSSRF led a session on scenario-based brand building, with an emphasis on the involvement of local communities.

Role of Women Leadership – In this context, Coco Rite Bakery located in Bichhiya Tehsil of Mandla district, which manufactures millet-based products, was visited. This initiative is led by Jamila Begum.

Field Visit and Experience Sharing
The participants visited Dhawaipani Processing Mill and Seed Bank located in Bodla Tehsil of Chhattisgarh. The visit was led by Chandrakant Yadav, Executive Director, Gramodaya Gram Vikas Samiti, Chhattisgarh. Seed conservation and processing activities conducted by women were observed.

Emphasis on Marketing and Branding
Dr. Anita Varghese, Director, Keystone Foundation shared the success story of LastForest Enterprises and Aadhimalai Brands under Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

The participants discussed dual branding strategies that can promote Kodo-Kutki products in local and international markets.

Way Forward
Scenario Mapping exercise to understand regional priorities for brand development.
Visit to established enterprises to learn from the experiences of local communities.

Research and laboratory testing to provide scientific validation to food safety and traditional knowledge.

The next roundtable will be held in September 2025 to discuss the progress of brand development initiatives and integration of traditional and scientific approaches in food security management.

NCCI Introduction: The Network for Conserving Central India (NCCI) works to link knowledge and action to sustain the coexistence of people and nature in the central Indian landscape.