Millets have been a significant part of the traditional diet of many tribes in Nagaland. This crop is deeply ingrained in the social and cultural ethos of the people, as it is not only a source of food but also a symbol of their cultural identity. In recent times, research has indicated the nutritional benefits of millets and their potential to contribute to food security in Nagaland. Despite such significance, there are several challenges that hamper their preservation and growth. One of the significant challenges is the lack of a proper market system for millets. The absence of a well established market system means that farmers face difficulties in selling their produce and getting fair prices for their crops. As a result, many farmers choose to cultivate other crops that have a more significant market demand, leading to the decline in the cultivation of millets. In addition, there is a policy gap that prevents the government from providing adequate support for the cultivation and preservation of millets. The lack of proper policies and regulations for millets limits the necessary assistance to cultivate millets. Climate change is also having a detrimental impact on the preservation of millets as there are problems with erratic rainfall patterns and temperature.
In this backdrop, the present study will investigate the challenges and opportunities for the preservation and growth of millets in Nagaland, with a focus on their nutritional benefits, cultural and social significance, market challenges, policy gaps, and the effects of climate change. It will also attempt to suggest measures to promote their cultivation, preservation, and consumption to enhance food security, nutritional well-being, and sustainable development thereby contributing to the emerging conversations in the field of Anthropology of Food.
