From forest fields to future plates: Kerala’s millet project aims to break new ground in India

Kannur University has initiated a new research project aimed at the scientific preservation of Kerala’s traditional millet resources and the sustainable development of tribal communities. The initiative is funded through the Kerala Forest Development Fund (KFDF) with financial support of ₹25 lakh. The three-year project, undertaken by the university’s Department of Environmental Studies, has received official approval from the Forest Department.

The primary objective is to provide scientific backing to the Forest Department’s ‘Punarjeevanam’ programme, which has been implemented in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary since 2016. Although more than 34 traditional varieties of ragi have been recovered from the brink of extinction under this initiative, they have not yet been subjected to systematic genetic study or scientific documentation. The new project seeks to formally identify these varieties and present their nutritional value through scientific analysis.

Genetic research and digital mapping of millet varieties

The research will be led by Dr Manoj K, Head of the Department of Environmental Studies, using advanced scientific and technological tools. The study will include DNA-based genetic analysis of ragi varieties, assessment of nutritional properties, and examination of the relationship between soil conditions and climate factors.

In addition, GPS technology will be used to map cultivation areas, and a comprehensive digital database of Kerala’s traditional millets will be developed. This is expected to become the largest such repository in the state, bringing together scientific and field-level data on indigenous millet varieties.

Tribal knowledge, conservation and livelihood support measures

A key component of the project focuses on preserving traditional knowledge held by tribal communities in the Anchunadu valley of Idukki district, particularly among the Muthuvan and Hill Pulaya groups. Their indigenous understanding of ragi cultivation, passed down through generations, is considered an important part of Kerala’s agricultural genetic heritage. 

The Forest Department and the Kerala Forest Research Institute will participate as co-researchers in the project. Beyond research, the initiative also aims to support the economic advancement of tribal communities. This includes efforts to obtain organic certification for traditional ragi cultivation, development of value-added products, and training in branding and marketing.

Community-based enterprises are also planned to help bring these products to national and international markets.

Focus on climate resilience and future food systems

Millets, known for their resilience to climate variability, are increasingly being viewed globally as part of future food systems. Through this research, Kerala’s traditional ragi varieties are expected to be scientifically evaluated for their nutritional and ecological value.

The initiative, involving collaboration between Kannur University and the Forest Department, has been described as a model approach to scientific conservation of agro-biodiversity and food security at national level.