Study on understanding of millets for the indigenous communities of Eastern Himalayan Region, India

Millets are nutritious cereal crops widely cultivated by tribal farming communities in the Northeastern Himalayan region of India. Millet production, despite its historical importance and adaptability to local conditions, is constrained, limiting its potential role in enhancing regional food security. This study examines the factors that affect millet acceptance in these communities to identify effective strategies for enhancing cultivation and consumption. We utilized a multinomial logistic regression model to analyze the factors influencing millet acceptance among respondents in the region. Our findings indicate a significant correlation between awareness of millet benefits and its adoption. Although 68.88% of respondents indicated they received training and demonstrations regarding millet cultivation and its nutritional value, there remain opportunities for expanded knowledge dissemination. A significant majority (55.6%) indicated a preference for millet-based value-added products, while a notable proportion (82.2%) acknowledged their health benefits. Our analysis identified key socio-demographic factors, including age, health consciousness, education level and occupation, which significantly influenced respondent attitudes and behaviors towards millets. The findings highlight the necessity of customizing interventions for distinct demographic groups to enhance effectiveness. The findings of the research are essential for improving millet production and consumption, which in turn enhances food security and promotes sustainable livelihoods in the region, potentially serving as a model for other areas encountering similar challenges.