International Year of Millets (Shree Anna)
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | March 18, 2023 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 303700 |
| Perforation | comb 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Yvert et Tellier IN 3541 Stanley Gibbons IN 3848 Colnect codes IN 2023.03.18-01 |
| Themes | Agriculture | Crops | International Years | Men | Seals(Emblems) | Women | |
Millets, among the earliest crops domesticated in India, have a rich history dating back to the Indus Valley civilization. They are primarily grown during the kharif season and require fewer resources compared to other staples. India holds a prominent position globally in millet production and area coverage, underscoring its importance in ensuring food and nutritional security.
In India, millets are cultivated over a significant area, with Rajasthan leading in cultivation, followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. Recognizing their immense potential, the Government of India has prioritized millets under various programs, promoting them as “Nutri Cereals” and declaring 2018 as the National Year of Millets.
To further highlight the significance of millets, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the nutritional benefits of millets, enhance investment in research and development, and promote their consumption globally.
The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has adopted a multi-stakeholder approach to achieve the objectives of the International Year of Millets, focusing on production enhancement, nutrition, value addition, entrepreneurship, awareness creation, international outreach, and policy interventions.
Prior to the official commencement of the International Year of Millets, India actively participated in various international and national events to mainstream millets, showcasing their diverse value-added products.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations organized an opening ceremony for the International Year of Millets in Rome, Italy, which was attended by senior Indian government officials. In India, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare launched several initiatives and conducted social media campaigns to highlight the importance of millets.
As part of promotional activities, millets will be showcased during the G20 & SCO presidency in India, including exhibitions, millet-based lunches, and curated millet hampers for foreign dignitaries.
The year 2023 will witness a concerted effort to increase awareness and adoption of millets through various activities nationally and globally. In support of this initiative, the Department of Posts is releasing a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the International Year of Millets 2023, contributing to the country’s nutritional security and the holistic development of its citizens.