MUMBAI, 19 May 2025: As the world turns to ancient grains for modern problems, millets have stormed back into the spotlight. Declared as the “International Year of Millets” in 2023 by the UN, these small-seeded cereals are gaining popularity not just for their nutritional prowess but also for their role in sustainable agriculture.
India, the global leader in millet production, is home to a diverse range of millet crops—each uniquely adapted to regional soils, climates, and traditions. Here are the top 10 millet varieties in India, powering nutrition, farmer resilience, and food security.
1. Pearl Millet (Bajra): The Desert Warrior
Grown in: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh
Scientific Name: Pennisetum glaucum
Key Traits: Heat and drought-resistant, iron-rich, ideal for arid zones
Pearl millet is India’s most widely cultivated millet. Known for its high iron and protein content, bajra is a staple in dry regions. Its deep root system makes it the perfect crop for water-scarce areas.
2. Finger Millet (Ragi): The Calcium King
Grown in: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra
Scientific Name: Eleusine coracana
Key Traits: Calcium-rich, diabetes-friendly, high in amino acids
Beloved in South India, ragi is a superfood for all ages. From ragi mudde to ragi malt, this millet is celebrated for bone health and blood sugar control.
3. Sorghum (Jowar): The Resilient Grain
Grown in: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh
Scientific Name: Sorghum bicolor
Key Traits: Gluten-free, anti-inflammatory, supports heart health
Jowar is more than just a traditional grain—it's now found in urban diets as flour, flakes, and even cookies. It’s also an important fodder crop for livestock.
4. Foxtail Millet (Kangni/Korra): The Urban Health Favorite
Grown in: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu
Scientific Name: Setaria italica
Key Traits: Low glycemic index, weight loss-friendly
Quick to cook and full of fiber, foxtail millet is making a strong comeback in metro kitchens. It supports sugar control and is perfect for modern cereal mixes.
5. Little Millet (Kutki/Samai): The Tiny Treasure
Grown in: Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh
Scientific Name: Panicum sumatrense
Key Traits: Easy to digest, nutrient-dense, versatile in cooking
Little millet might be small in size but it's big on nutrition. Often used in pulao and pongal, it’s a healthier alternative to rice for the diet-conscious.
6. Barnyard Millet (Sanwa/Jhangora): The Fasting Hero
Grown in: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar
Scientific Name: Echinochloa frumentacea
Key Traits: Low calorie, high fiber, fasting-season favorite
Barnyard millet is rich in iron and perfect for detox diets. Commonly consumed during Navratri fasts, it’s light, nourishing, and easy to cook.
7. Kodo Millet (Kodon): The Liver-Friendly Millet
Grown in: Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh
Scientific Name: Paspalum scrobiculatum
Key Traits: Gluten-free, antioxidant-rich, helps reduce anxiety
Traditionally grown by tribal communities, Kodo is known to support liver function and reduce cholesterol. Its earthy flavor goes well in traditional dishes.
8. Proso Millet (Cheena): The Protein Powerhouse
Grown in: Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh
Scientific Name: Panicum miliaceum
Key Traits: High protein, easy to cook, kid-friendly
A fast-growing millet, Proso is rich in lecithin, aiding cognitive health. It’s also used in breakfast mixes, soups, and porridge for growing children.
9. Browntop Millet (Korale): The Gut Healer
Grown in: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh
Scientific Name: Brachiaria ramosa
Key Traits: Low carbs, high iron, detox-friendly
One of the rarest millets, Browntop is gaining cult status among wellness enthusiasts. It improves gut health, is easily digestible, and grows in poor soils.
10. Guinea Millet (White Sorghum): The Indigenous Gem
Grown in: Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh (Tribal belts)
Scientific Name: Brachiaria deflexa
Key Traits: Boosts food diversity, supports tribal economies
Often overlooked, this native variety is now receiving attention for its role in preserving biodiversity and supporting tribal livelihoods.
The Millet Comeback: More Than Just a Trend
Millets aren’t just healthy—they’re essential for the future of food. With rising concerns over water scarcity, carbon emissions, and malnutrition, these ancient grains are making a smart, sustainable comeback.
As India leads the way in millet cultivation and export, integrating these crops into modern farming systems and daily diets could hold the key to climate-resilient agriculture, nutrition security, and rural empowerment.
Image credit: alliancebioversityciat.org
