Renowned actor Nagarjuna Akkineni, lends support to the campaign through a powerful video message.
Millet Marvels – a socially driven start-up committed to “Changing the Way India Eats, in association with Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) and Nutrihub, announced the launch of a National Mission to promote millet in daily diet – “One Meal a Day with Millets”, today at the Indian Institute of Millets Research (ICAR-IIMR), Rajendranagar.
To amplify the mission nationwide, Millet Marvels has partnered with renowned actor Nagarjuna Akkineni, who has lent his support to the campaign through a powerful video message. In his message, he urges citizens to embrace millets as part of their daily meals and commends Millet Marvels, for conceptualizing this impactful initiative aimed at building a healthier nation.
The initiative aligns with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to encourage healthier food habits across the country. This pioneering initiative advocates the adoption of Millets for every individual and household, marking a significant step toward transforming India’s nutritional landscape.
Esteemed Guest Sri Janampalli Anirudh Reddy, Hon’ble MLA, Telangana; formally launched the nationwide movement towards mindful eating and sustainable living. Special Guests Dr. C. Tara Satyavathi, Director, ICAR: Indian Institute of Millets Research & Dr. J. Stanley, Director & CEO, Nutrihub: ICAR-IIMR; graced the occasion. Dr. Bharat Reddy, Founder & CEO, Millet Marvels; was present on the occasion. Sri Appalanaidu Kalisetti, Hon’ble MP – Lok Sabha, AP; shared a video message on the occasion.
As part of the launch, participants took a pledge to incorporate one millet-based meal into their daily routine, spread awareness about the benefits of millets, and nominate three others to join the movement. This chain-based outreach is expected to accelerate the campaign’s reach across India and, eventually, globally.
Sri Janampalli Anirudh Reddy, said, the future of India lies in millets. Once regarded as the “poor man’s food,” while polished rice and wheat were seen as symbols of affluence, the narrative is now reversing, those who are health-conscious are returning to millets, while poor are moving toward refined grains. Today, significant investments are being made in irrigation to support paddy cultivation. However, crops like millets require nearly 80% less water and offer far greater nutritional benefits, making them both environmentally sustainable and health-friendly. The “One Meal a Day with Millets” initiative by Millet Marvels is a commendable step in the right direction. I intend to strongly advocate for increased millet consumption in the upcoming assembly session. At a time when many in the West are consciously shifting toward millets, it is ironic that we are moving toward the processed foods they are moving away from. It is our collective responsibility to instil healthy eating habits in the next generation and build a healthier future for our nation.
This initiative marks the beginning of a transformative journey, a people’s movement toward embracing millets as a sustainable and nutritious way of life, says Dr. Bharat Reddy. Through this mission, Millet Marvels aims to inspire a nationwide shift toward healthier eating practices, reinforcing the importance of traditional grains in modern diets while contributing to long-term public health and sustainability. This is a landmark day for Millet Marvels. Through this campaign, we aspire for every individual to adopt at least one millet-based meal each day. When I approached Nagarjuna garu to share a message on millet consumption, he extended his wholehearted support without hesitation, lending his voice to this cause. I am confident his message will inspire many to rethink and transform their food habits. adds Dr. Reddy.
Dr. Tara Satyavathi said, the recommendation of the National Institute of Nutrition is clear, one-third of the cereals we consume should be millets, and they can be included in any meal of the day. The reason is simple, we all aspire to live healthy, happy, and meaningful lives. A balanced diet directly influences not just our physical health, but also our thoughts, behaviour, and overall well-being. Millets truly deserve their reputation as superfoods. With nine diverse varieties, each offering unique nutritional benefits, they play a vital role in maintaining good health. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and proteins, millets provide the nourishment our bodies need, naturally and holistically. This is a wake-up call for all of us to address rising lifestyle diseases. Our ancestors believed that food itself is medicine, but today, we often consume food that leads us toward more medication. Let’s make a conscious shift. Start by including millets in at least one meal a day and spread this message to inspire more people to embrace healthier eating habits.
Dr. J. Stanley said, this campaign is redefining the way India eats, driving a meaningful behavioural shift toward a healthier nation. The idea of “One Meal a Day with Millets” is simple, actionable, and highly scalable, seamlessly connecting nutrition, sustainability, and farmers’ livelihoods within a single framework. Dr. Bharat Reddy deserves immense appreciation for conceptualising this forward-thinking initiative. This launch marks an important step toward making millets a regular part of our daily diet, rather than just an occasional alternative.
