Patnagarh hosted a vibrant Millet Food Festival at the ADO Office, where the Youth Council for Development Alternatives (YCDA), under its Shree Anna Abhiyan project, showcased the importance of millets in ensuring nutrition and food security. YCDA’s specially arranged millet stall became one of the key attractions, drawing the attention of distinguished dignitaries and community members alike.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri K.V. Singhdeo, Balangir MP Smt. Sangeeta Singhdeo, Rajya Sabha MP Shri Niranjan Bishi, and District Collector & District Magistrate Shri Gaurav Shivaji Isalwar graced the event and visited the YCDA stall. They savored a variety of millet-based dishes prepared to highlight the nutritional value, taste, and versatility of these traditional grains. All the guests appreciated the efforts of YCDA in popularizing millets as a healthy and eco-friendly alternative to mainstream crops.

The Millet Food Festival not only celebrated the cultural heritage of millets but also emphasized their role in sustainable agriculture. Millets are climate-resilient, require less water, and are rich in nutrients, making them a vital crop in addressing both health and environmental concerns. Through the Shree Anna Abhiyan, YCDA is working closely with farmers and communities to revive millet cultivation and integrate millet-based food into daily diets.

The event reaffirmed YCDA’s commitment to promoting healthy eating habits, supporting smallholder farmers, and contributing to long-term food security. By encouraging millet consumption, the organization envisions building healthier communities while sustaining traditional farming practices that align with ecological well-being.