Meet Raimati Ghiuria, Farmer Who Preserves 30 Types Of Rare Millets

Raimati Ghiuria, affectionately known as the 'Queen of Millet', has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting traditional farming practices, particularly the cultivation of Indian millets. With over three decades of tireless effort, Raimati has single-handedly conserved more than 30 varieties of millets, safeguarding India's rich agricultural heritage for future generations.

A Tribute to Tradition

The recent G20 Summit, a gathering of leaders from across the globe, witnessed an extraordinary presence—Raimati Ghiuria. Hailing from humble beginnings, Raimati's expertise in millet cultivation and preservation garnered international acclaim, earning her the esteemed moniker of the "Queen of Millets."

Her active participation in revitalizing traditional rice and millet varieties earned her a prestigious invitation to the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi, where she received personal commendation from the President of India, Draupadi Murmu. This national-level recognition not only honours Raimati's extraordinary contributions but also serves as a testimony to the power of grassroots initiatives to drive positive change on a global scale.

Born into an agricultural family in a small tribal village, Raimati's journey into farming began at a young age. Inspired by the legendary Padma Shri awardee Kamala Pujari, she embraced traditional cultivation techniques and immersed herself in the art of preserving native grains. With 72 traditional paddy varieties and 30 millet varieties under her stewardship, Raimati embodies the spirit of conservation and innovation.

Cultivating Change

While being married off at the age of 16, she continued to pursue her dream of collecting and preserving millet types while having to do household chores. Over time, she utilized better technology and scientific agricultural methods to increase millet productivity and quality.

Leveraging her partnership with the Chennai-based non-profit, MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), she has empowered countless women in rural areas by imparting invaluable knowledge in millet farming. From the adoption of scientific conservation methods to the dissemination of traditional farming knowledge, Raimati's efforts are paving the way for a sustainable agricultural revolution. Through workshops and training sessions, Raimati has catalyzed a movement towards sustainable agriculture, fostering economic independence and environmental stewardship among local communities.

The Role of Millets in Nutrition Security

Beyond their cultural significance, millets offer a myriad of health benefits that are indispensable in today's fast-paced world. Rich in essential nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants, millets serve as a cornerstone of balanced nutrition. Moreover, their gluten-free nature makes them an ideal choice for individuals with dietary restrictions, while their low glycemic index renders them invaluable in managing conditions like diabetes. By incorporating millet into our diets, we not only nourish our bodies but also contribute to the preservation of agricultural biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

Empowering Women, Enriching Lives

For Raimati, the journey goes beyond mere cultivation; it is about empowering women and fostering socio-economic development at the grassroots level. By spearheading self-help groups and farmer-producer companies, she has enabled women farmers to process millets into value-added products, thereby creating new avenues for income generation. Through her leadership and advocacy, Raimati has not only transformed the agricultural world but has also ignited a sense of pride and purpose within her community.