eChapters

Introduction

The COVID 19 pandemic is threatening food systems and international food security. According to the World Food Programme (WFP), that says the amount of individuals facing crisis hunger is anticipated to virtually double this year to 265 million. Already, quite 820 million individuals don’t get enough food to eat, and another a hundred thirty five million individuals face acute hunger or starvation. Increase that, the economic destabilization caused by COVID-19, and another a hundred thirty million people are in danger of starvation by the top of 2020, says WFP. The quickness with that a health crisis transforms in an exceedingly hunger crisis shows however fragile is our food systems to shocks of any nature.

Introduction

Agricultural production system achieved a miracle by the way of green revolution which compactualized the potential of photoperiod and the thermo insensitive input responsive crop culture. The productive trends of food crops continued with increased fertilizer consumption, irrigation potential and improved agro-techniques. However science based intensive agriculture with intensive irrigation due to its inappropriate, inpropotional and ambitious approaches put the agriculture productivity on back foot. Because of these problems the arable land is facing the problem to sustain itself in terms of its capacity to produce desirable output. The scenario is further threatened with increase in climate change impact on various natural resources. The projected food crisis is on the card.

Introduction

Rice, being an important crop in India, there is a part to focus on improving rice production and productivity. A number of biotic and abiotic factors mostly referred as production constraints that affect the rice yield adversely and subsequently, needs an extraordinary consideration to the developing demand of continuously emerging population of India (Kumar and Jha, 2000). Abiotic stress has been estimated that more than half of the yield potential of major crops is mainly affected due to unfavourable growing environments such as drought (Cortina and Culianez-Macia, 2005). The current study was aimed to carry out to assess the impact of Pink pigmented facultative methylotrophs (PPFM) and plant growth promoters on mitigating drought stress effects in semi dry rice.

Introduction

Agriculture is an important sector in Indian economy, 58 per cent of India’s population depends on agriculture for their livelihood. Agriculture is main victim of climate change, it can disrupt availability, accessibility and quality of food. Moreover, increase in temperature, reduction in ground water availability, f looding and salinity are the major limiting factors in sustaining and increasing vegetable productivity. As a result of this crop physiology and production both are affected. Organic farming can help to tackle climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied to farming land. In India we have advantage that the agricultural techniques we practiced before green revolution in our country is eco-friendly and today also it is somehow it is in memories of our older and younger farmer generation. Principle of sustainable farming is the base of organic farming. According to OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) “Sustainable agro-ecosystem - agricultural and food systems are economically viable, meet society’s need for food assurance, while they retain and enhance natural resources and environmental quality for future generations” it is very clear from the definition that organic farming mostly emphasizes the environmental aspect and it includes.

Introduction

The hilly states in north eastern India are not only famous for their forest wealth and awesome wild assets. These states are also known for their track record in harvesting specific crops and fruits. Some of the iconic ones are like, “Assam tea” which is famous in and outside India and popularity of “Khasi mandarin” is also well known. The small landlocked state Tripura produces quality pineapples in abundant amounts, where cv. Queen is popular among the growers. Sikkim and other states of north eastern region of India is known for their Organic Farming techniques, which is mostly attributed the nature of hill farming on this region. North-East is rich in horticultural aspect viz., f loriculture with a rich variety of medicinal plants grown there along with various fruits and vegetables. An analysis of NSSO survey data on cultivation practices shows that the North-East hill states have retained traditional practices and show an inclination towards organic agriculture that is harnessed for the development of the region with ecological benefits.

Introduction

For capacity building of farming community, training plays a vital role. It helps in enriching the knowledge along with enhancement of essential skill required in performing certain practices in a specific crop cultivation. The skills required by a coconut cultivator need to be supplemented with additional skills in order to increase the yield of nuts. Government provide better support to the coconut growing farmers to improve their income, to reduce the risk involved in cultivation, implementation of quality agricultural practices and f inally enhancing the income of coconut grower in business mode. Training is a source of information, advice and influence in the decision making process. Training helps in enhancement of knowledge, improvement of skill, interaction with experts and to build confidence. Keeping this in view, the present study was conducted to know the training need areas of coconut growers in Gop block of Puri district of the state of Odisha.

Introduction

Soil is one of the elements required for farming and it provides nutrients to the plant. Healthy soil containing all the elements for growth and development of crop as well as heart of soil health is the integration of the soil physical, chemical, and biological process and its functions. But inorganic farming adopted over the recent years to maximize crop production has become Hazardous because in the long run deteriorating the soil health and the quality of the agricultural produces besides polluting the environment and natural resources of soil and water dangerously. Soil testing helps to recommend chemicals fertilizers more judiciously in combination with organic manures and bio fertilizers and hence balanced nutrition to crop. Soil health and fertility is the basis for sustainable profitability of the farmers. Soil testing is a science based and time-tested tool for assessment of soil fertility status and soil ailments and for nutrient amendment recommendations.

Introduction

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L) is one of the major starchy tuber vegetable crops of the world. It is a unique crop which can supplement the food needs of the country in a substantial manner. Today, potato is the need of life or poor man’s food in many countries including India. Potato production in India has made tremendous progress only with the development of new technologies in different fields of agriculture. It has been observed that the farmers are not adopting recommended practices and consequently not realizing the potential yield of potato. To understand the problems of farmers in the adoption of complete recommended farm practices, researchers as well as extension workers should come out with some concrete findings and suggestions, which can solve these problems. It has been seen that a large number of techniques and practices do not reach the farmer’s fields and those carried to the farmers get considerably distorted or often adopted partially with the result that farmers do not get the potential yield.

Introduction

In the era of communication and information, each one of us should have access to information as per our choice, interest, priority, need and requirement. We all are playing different role in different walk of life in different capacity, for different professions, avocations, duties and responsibilities as well. To internalize any concept or idea, a perceptual clarity is very much necessary for interweaving it in our experiential textures. This is possible when more and more number of sensory organs are engaged in a learning situation irrespective of the subject or content to learn. In 21 Century with the advancement of science and technology, more particularly, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), it is possible to establish the connectivity on e-mode and do the things on virtual mode to the possible extent. It is quite possible in urban set up with proper infrastructural facilities both at the source as well as at the receiver end, without any distortion of message on account of electricity failure or wrongful handling of computer or any gadget for that matter.

The term ‘gender’ was first used by Ann Oakley and others in 1970s to describe the characteristics of men and women which are socially determined in contrast to biological differences. The term ‘gender’ further explains, a neutral term meaning, either men or women or both are in a particular context. The goal is to improve the status of disadvantaged class and get rid of socially created and approved discriminations. The green revolution in India changed the face of agriculture but apparently it contributed to two general trends (FAO, 1996) where wealthy have benefited more from technological change in agriculture than the less well off and secondly men have benefited more than women. In general, it is true that the priorities are set by men and some women, who are unaware of gender issues, and that these are seldom considered unless the research is sociological. But even social research can be totally gender blind.

Introduction

Agriculture is the main sector of the Odisha economy and contributes approximately 42% to the gross domestic product (GDP) and employs over 80% of the population. Despite its role, agricultural production is constrained by high climate variability where rainfall distribution is extremely uneven and this has negative implications for the livelihoods of people .Drought frequently results in crop failure, while high rainfall intensities result in low infiltration and high runoff causing enhanced soil erosion and land degradation. Land degradation in the form of soil erosion and declining land fertility is a serious challenge to agricultural productivity and economic growth (Lemenih, 2004).Studies indicate that the tribal district of Odisha have experienced high rates of soil erosion and deforestation, resulting in sediment accumulation in downstream reservoirs and rivers.

Introduction

Agriculture sector is currently at the crossroads, which is evident in terms of higher nutritive food requirements juxtaposed with growing population. Food production faces multiple challenges due to frequent occurrence of natural calamities, sudden rise in temperature, increase in occurrence of disease and pests leading to both pre and postharvest crop loss. Alarming decrease in fertility status of high and medium land soils of Odisha due to formation of hard clay pan below 4-6” of soil depth has resulted in slowing down of nutrient mineralization by the soil microorganisms within the soil. Crop production stress is further aggravated due to steady decrease in availability of cultivable land with the advent of urbanization, which concurrently reduced the number of dedicated agricultural households. It has been estimated that production of all food grains and horticultural crops needs to be doubled at farmer’s level in order to feed the growing population of the world failing which there will be food crisis by2050.

Introduction

The much awaited new educational Policy 2020 approved and released by the Central Government on July, 29, 2020. A document which is set to transform Indian education system in most holistic way and will exert a long lasting influence on framing the Indian education system by addressing the vivid issues across the discipline and streams. The implementation of this policy will be under a single body HECI (Higher Education Council of India) well supported by multiple bodies like National Higher Education Regulatory Council(NHREC), Meta-accrediting body referred as Nation accreditation Council (NAC), Higher Education Grant Council (HEGC), General Education Council(GEC) also called Graduate attributes, it will formulate the National Higher Education Qualification Frame work (NHEQF). This council will take over presently regulating bodies of higher education like University Grant Commission, All India Council of Technical Education and National Council of Teachers Education.

Rice is the longest continuously grown cereal crop in the world and according to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) it is “one of the most important developments in history” (Forssell, 2008). India has to produce 114 million tons of rice by the year 2030 to meet the food grain requirement of burgeoning population. In state Bihar, Kharif is the predominant season with rice cultivated in 3.2 m ha. On the other hand the rice is cultivated in about 1 lakh ha during Rabi season (Anonymous, 2014). The process-based dynamic simulation crop models based on soil, crop and weather factors could be effective research tools for planning alternative strategies for crop management, land use and water management and also a useful tool for planning and developing technological interventions in diverse areas like India (Aggarwal and Kalra, 1994).

Introduction

Rice plays a unique role in providing food to the majority of the world population. Rice is the most widely consumed food for nearly three-fourths of the population in India. Now a days scented rice is getting higher market price than normal rice varieties. Black Scented rice is commonly considered as forbidden rice. Different researches proved that black Scented rice is one of the “super food” of the world. Black Scented rice is consumed in various ways like puddings, pulao, bread, etc in different festivals and during important ceremonies. Mostly this crop is prone to lodging but resistance to infestation by insect and pest. Works done in India and abroad indicates that the particular method of establishment, adequate level of nitrogen and a particular time of application of nitrogenous fertilizer can enhance productivity. Nitrogen is the main nutrient that determines rice yield, due to its role in the photosynthesis, biomass accumulation and, spikelet formation (Hasegawa et al., 1994; Yoshida et al., 2006).

Introduction

In India, the ground water recharge in arid and semi-arid regions is very important particularly as most of the population residing in these regions depend on groundwater for drinking and irrigation purposes. In such scenarios, to alleviate the problems of drinking water, the collection and storage of rainwater to supplement existing water supply sources should be implemented. The utilization of rainwater is one of the best methods that can aid in sustainable urban development (Kim et al., 2005). Every drop of rainfall should be utilized to cater the demand of an ever increasing population as the present system of water supply may not be sufficient in future. The rain water collection & its utilization, seems to be the only option to satisfy the demand of arid and semi arid regions. In most cases, the rain water is the purest water source & contains very low impurities. It is necessary to adopt rainwater harvesting methods in places where the conventional water supply has failed to meet the peak period demand of the people for drinking water. Rain water harvesting is one of the most economical and practical methods to provide supplementary water supplies for drinking purpose.

Introdoction

Tillage is a prime activity carried out prior to sowing of a crop with an objective to bring the soil to a favorable tilth to provide a congenial environment for crop growth and yield. The operation of ploughing once and left out for a few weeks followed by a broadcasting of rice seeds by hand and then ploughing and raking together at the same time once gave highly significant rice grain yield (Srisa-ard, 2008). Adoption of the “Sawah” system (bunded, puddle and leveled) in inland valleys in Ghana lead to significant improvement in soil and water management; enhancement in rice grain yield and made sustainable production. Even the practice of Sawah system of cultivation increased local rice production by over 300% because of the mechanisms with intrinsic resistance to erosion (better water control and nutrient management (Buri et al., 2012).

Introduction

Agriculture is the most important sector of Indian Economy. The agriculture sector accounts for 18 per cent of India’s gross domestic product (GDP) and provides employment to 50 per cent of the countries workforce. India has emerged as the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world. Formerly agriculture was more dependent on nature and all the operations were carried out manually, however new technologies have been developed to increase the production and productivity of crops (Rangbhal, 2018).

Introduction

Irrigated agriculture plays a predominant role in the state’s food grain production. Erratic trend of rainfall, it has been realized that the availability of water will become very less in forthcoming days as a result cultivation of crops will face water crisis. Development of new water resources needs excessive money investment with high level of expertise and technical knowhow. The ground water is also falling down to greater and greater depth due to overdraft causing for the restriction of the construction of tube wells. Further the efficiency of traditional irrigation system in India is now varying from 30% to 40% against 62 to 65% during the project plan periodbecause of wastage of this valuable water resource due to mismanagement. To meet the increasing demand for additional food grain production, the demand for water in the irrigation sector will increase substantially. In such a situation conservation of water and its proper management is necessary for developing a sustainable agricultural system avoiding the degradation of the land quality, water and other natural resources in an irrigated area.

Introduction

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the vital cereal crop, probably the oldest cultivated grain crop, produced under varied ecosystems is consumed as the primary source of food by the billions of people throughout the world covering 9% of total arable land among world. India is one of the top leading countries in the entire world in case of both production and consumption of rice. Rice is cultivated in 43.86 m ha geographical area of the country producing 115.6 million tons (2018- 2019) of rice. It is produced in various ecosystems throughout the country under diverse climatic and soil condition but the productivity is much lower as compared to other countries. According to Pandey et al. (2006), the average loss of rice production during drought years in major rainfed rice grown states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Odisha was found to be 30 percent of the annual production in case of non-drought years.

Introduction

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. ) popularly known as Gram, Bengal gram, Egyptian pea, Chana, or Kabuli chana, Garbanzo bean is one of the first grain legumes to be domesticated by humans in old world (Van der Maesen, 1972). The genus Cicer belongs to the sub-family Papilionaceae of the family Leguminoceae (Bentham and Hooker, 1970) now popularly known as ‘Fabaceae’ and have chromosome number 2n = 2x = 16. The origin of the crop is considered to be Western Asia from where it has been transferred in India and other parts of the world (Rathore and Sharma, 2003). Importance of pulses is relatively more in our country as its contribution in nutrient supply is far more in Indian diet than that in Asia and world as a whole (Ali,2002).

Introduction

Smart farming focuses on retrieving data and using it in developing farming systems in a smart way that will yield better results. Such real time data can be readily accessed by the farmers through smart phones or tablets which will help them to take wise decisions at the right time. It helps in managing farms using technologies like IoT, robotics, drones and AI to increase the quantity and quality of products while optimizing the human labor required by production. Digital farming goes a step further and creates value from data. Integrating the concept of precision and smart farming, digital farming can be explained as “consistent application of the methods of precision farming and smart farming, internal and external networking of the farm and use of web-based data platforms together with Big Data analysis” (A paper on Digital Agriculture, 2018). Though such technologies are highly attractive and worth investing, they are also accompanied by uncertainty and trade – offs. Education, training, dissemination of information, finance and marketing are some of the major factors that would drive the farmers towards adoption of sustainable farming technologies (Grand View Research, 2019).

1. Calibration of Milk Butyrometer

Introduction

Butyrometer is used for determination of fat for milk and milk products by Gerber method. The milk butyrometer is a graduated vessel, which are designed in such a way that the internal volume of each unit is 0.125 ml which is corresponding to 1 percent fat. Sometimes due to manufacturer’s error, the volume of one unit of milk butyrometer is not exactly equal to 0.125 which leads to subsequent error in results in milk fat. So before starting to use a new butyrometer, it is essential to calibrate for its efficiency in the laboratory. Mercury is used to calibrate milk butyrometer.

Apparatus

Milk butyrometer (0 – 10% graduation), analytical balance

1. Preparation of Standard Sodium Hydroxide Solution

 Introduction

 When oxalic acid reacts sodium hydroxide, sodium oxalate and water are

form. Phenolphthalein indicator detects the end point by its characteristics

colour change.

 Apparatus

 Burettes, pipette, volumetric flask, beaker

 Reagents

 • Oxalic acid crystals

 • Sodium hydroxide – 0.1 N approximate

 • Phenolphthalein solution – 0.1 percent in ethyl alcohol

Procedure Preparation of 0.1 N oxalic acid solution 1. Weight accurately 1.575 g of oxalic acid into a 250 ml beaker using a weighing bottle. 2. Add some distilled water to the beaker and dissolve the oxalic acid with the help of glass rod. 3. Transfer the solution into a 250 ml volumetric flask through a funnel. 4. Wash the beaker 3- 4 times with small quantities of distilled water and transfer the washing into the flask. 5. Make up the volume up to the mark with distilled water and mix thoroughly. 6. Preparation of approximately 0.1 N sodium hydroxide solution 7. Weigh about 4.25 g of sodium hydroxide pellets and dissolve into 200 ml of distilled water.

1 Detection of Starch Introduction

Starch is widely available in several forms such as wheat flour, corn flour and commercially manufactured starch. It is extensively used by adulterators to raise the SNF content in the milk. When high amounts of starch are added to milk, it can cause diarrhea due to the indigestion of starch in colon. Apart from this, accumulation of starch in the body may prove very fatal for diabetic patients. In this method, starch in milk can be detected by using iodine solution. Iodine from the iodine solution gets absorbed on the starch molecule surface and resultant product of adsorption has deep blue colour.

Reagents

 • Potassium iodide

 • Iodine solution - 1% (Add 1 g of iodine and 5 g of potassium iodide in

distilled water and dilute to 100 ml)

Sample Preparation

Sample should be taken at six or more points on the top of the surface by means of a tubular trier of sufficient length to extend to the bottom of the barrel. Remove this cores and transfer to clean, dry, air tight container and seal immediately.

Before opening sample for analysis, make homogenous either by shaking or by alternately rolling and inverting container. If lump are present, sift sample through No 20 sieve, rubbing material through sieve and tapping vigorously, if necessary.

Avoid sampling on rainy day or when humidity is high, so as to reduce moisture absorption from air.

1 Determination of Moisture Content by Moisture Balance Introduction

In this procedure, infra-red radiation is used to accomplish rapid drying. The tester has a sensitive torsion balance which permits rapid determination directly from the balance scale, eliminating the need for computing or calculation to obtain results. This method is useful for the in-process determination of moisture because the results may be obtained in minutes.

Sample Preparation

a) Plain products: Sample should be softened at room temperature. Since the melted fat tends to separate and rise to the surface, it is not advisable to soften the sample by heating on a water bath or oven or flame. Mix thoroughly by stirring with spoon or eggbeater or by pouring back and forth between beakers.

b) Ice-cream containing Fruits and Nuts: Fill one third part of the cup with ice cream sample. Melt the product at room temperature and mix until insoluble particles are finely divided (about 3-5 minutes for fruit pieces and upto 7 minutes for nut pieces). Otherwise, the product may be ground in a porcelain or glass pestle and mortar. Don’t let temperature exceed 25oC at any time during softening and mixing steps. If fat separation occurs, discard sample otherwise immediately pour mixture into wide jar and cap tightly. If allowed to stand, shake vigorously before taking sample for analysis.

Sample Preparation

 Cheese sample is prepared by passing through 8 mesh sieve three times or

grate sample and mix thoroughly or grind to a uniform mass in a glass pestle

and mortar. Keep the sample in an airtight container until the time of analysis.

 1 Determination of Moisture Content in Cheese

 Introduction

The moisture content of cheese is defined as the loss in mass, expressed as a

percentage by mass when the product is heated in a hot air oven at 102 ± 2°C

to constant mass.

1 Analysis of Cream

 Sample Preparation

Warm the cream sample to 40 - 50oC if the sample is very viscous. Then pour from one vessel to another 3 to 4 times to mix well. Sample should be tested daily and always within three days after collection since enzymatic deterioration of the cream will cause low tests.

1.1 Determination of Fat Content in Cream

 1.1.1 Gerber Method

 Introduction

Sulphuric acid is added to cream in order to dissolve the protein and other solids and create heat which liquefy and de-emulsify the fat. Iso-amyl alcohol is added to aid the separation of fat. Upon centrifugation, fat being lighter will be separated on top of solution in the cream butyrometer.

1 Analysis of Chemical Composition of Milk

 1.1 Determination of Acidity of Milk

 Introduction

The acidity of milk can be determined by titrating the milk against standard sodium hydroxide solution using an indicator like phenolphthalein and is expressed in the terms of lactic acid. Though natural acidity in milk is due to its constituents such as casein, albumin, citrates, phosphates and carbon dioxide but it is customary to express in terms of lactic acid. As one gram equivalent weight of an alkali neutralizes one gram equivalent weight of an acid, the volume of standard alkali required to neutralize lactic acid of fixed volume of milk gives percent acidity of milk according to the reaction.

1. Introduction The chapter aims to bring out the potential benefits of radiation processing technology for value-addition of millets. How the radiation processing technology can be exploited for making millets as a popular staple food would be the central theme. The key focus is to establish if irradiation (the term generally used for radiation processing of any material) can be employed for making millets for different purposes relevant to farmers and consumers. In order to understand and prove, we would list out the challenges involved in developing the market for millets. The key points that need to be considered for this go-to-market strategy for millets are : a) Millet grains have a long shelf-life, much better than the popular grains e.g., rice and wheat, consumed worldwide, but millet flour shelf life is significantly much shorter.

1. Introduction According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, 780 million of the estimated 792.5 million malnourished people globally are in countries that are developing. Despite expanded agricultural production, “hidden hunger,” which is often caused by a shortage of vital micronutrients in daily meals, affects around 2 billion people worldwide. Majority of the population is relying on plant-based diets which are critical for sustaining nutritional security and are the primary source of nutrients required for optimal growth and development. Most of these diets are found deficit in major nutrients such as proteins, iron, calcium and Vitamin B12.However, a considerable number of Asian and African populations suffer from nutritional inadequacies as a result of consuming plant-based diets (Tripathi et al., 2019). Earlier, the main concern of farming systems was crop productivity and yield. However, there has been a shift in emphasis toward human health and well-being.

1. Introduction Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, have described millets as the staple food useful in managing diabetes mellitus (Sachan Kumar, 2004). Based on the experience of eating these millets for time immemorial, there exists also a strong traditional knowledge about health benefits associated with them. For example, as per an adage in the state of Karnataka, India: “Those who eat rice will grow as a light weight; their body being just like that of a bird; those who eat Jowar will become as strong as a wolf but those who eat Ragi (millets) will be the strongest of them all, plus they would be free from illness (‘nirogi’ in Sanskrit)”! Certain studies from literature refer nutraceutical character of millets, especially, Kodo and Kutki, which in our opinion should help mankind in eradicating malnutrition and hunger while ensuring sustainable supply of food.

Millets have immense potential of providing nutritional security worldwide and play a pivotal role in food and nutrition economy. The nutritional aspects of millets are comparatively superior from the widely consumed cereals across the globe. With the presence of various essential macro nutrients millets are also enriched with the goodness of micro nutrients as minerals, vitamins and possess various bioactive compounds that portray several health benefits. The nutritional attributes of the millets are accompanied with several antinutritional factors such as tannins, phytates, saponins, trypsin and amylase inhibitors etc. that limit the bioavailability of the essential nutrients and minerals in these wonder grains upon consumption.

. Introduction Millets, once considered as humble and forgotten grains, have made a remarkable comeback owing to their numerous health benefits, sustainability, and resilience in diverse agroclimatic conditions. Millet consumption is gaining momentum globally and thus it becomes imperative to establish clear and comprehensive standards for these grains. The chapter gives an insight into the reasons why millet standards are necessary, the challenges associated with implementing such standards and advocacy for a concerted effort to promote these nutritious grains as staples in our diets.

1. Introduction Fonio (Digitaria exilis), also known as acha, hungry millets, and fundi in various regions, is a minor and underutilized millet with exceptionally small size (H. Sartelet et al., 1996; Bello et al., 2020). This ancient crop native to West Africa is considered one of the oldest cultivated millets for ensuring food security. Figure 1 illustrates the components and structure of fonio millets. In recent times, fonio millet has garnered increased attention due to its remarkable nutritional and functional properties (Zhu, 2020). Being gluten-free, it is rich in nutrients such as carbohydrates, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals (Fe, Cl, K, Mg) as well as essential sulphur-containing amino acids like methionine and cysteine, which also possess phenolic properties (Barikmo et al., 2004; Zhu, 2020).

1. Introduction Plants have played a crucial role in fulfilling human needs for centuries, and among the vast array of plant species, Job’s Tear (Coixlacryma-jobi L), also known as adlay, coix, and Chinese pearl barley, holds significant potential as a crop in the Poaceae family. There are four main varieties of Job’s Tear, including C. lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen, C. lacryma-jobi var. Puellarum, C. lacryma-jobi var. lacryma-jobi, and C. lacryma-jobi var. Stenocarpa. The Indo-Maynmar region serves as the primary producing area for Job’s Tear millet, with other significant production countries being China, Japan, the Philippines, Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India (Laxmisha et al.,2022). The versatile crop has earned the status of a staple in many regions, not only ensuring food security but also improving the livelihoods of rural farmers. Beyond its nutritional significance, Job’s Tear has garnered recognition for its potential health benefits.

Browntop millet (Urochloaramosa) is a warm-season crop that produces seeds that are heavier than other millet varieties. This crop is cultivated in several types of soils and climates. Browntop millet is an introduced grass that originated in Southeast Asia. It is grown in Africa, western Asia, Arabia, China, and Australia. It was introduced to the United States from India in 1915. It is also useful for controlling erosion, producing hay, feeding wild animals, and producing grain for human use. In addition, it is also utilized as a crop for wild animal food. In dry and semi-arid regions, millets constitute the main food supply. Although India is the main producer of millet, output and use have fallen. Browntop millets are nutrient-dense. Browntop millet is a miracle crop for arid and rainfed areas. Nearly all of the necessary nutrients are found in browntop millets.

1. Introduction Millets are the oldest crops known to mankind. They are mostly cultivated for human consumption however; some are also used as animal fodder. Barnyard millet Echinochloa frumentacea is a multi-purpose crop belonging to the kingdom plantae, order-poales, family-poaceae, subfamily-panicoideae, genus-Echinochloa & species-E. frumentacea. It was domesticated about 4,000 years ago with two main species: Echinochloa esculenta (Japanese barnyard millet) and Echinochloa frumentacea (Indian barnyard millet). The former species is mainly grown in Japan, Korea, and northeastern China, while the latter is grown in Pakistan, India, and Nepal. In India, barnyard millet is grown in the Himalayan region from the north to the Deccan plateau in the south and is popularly known as jhangora or sawan millet.

Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) is a resilient and ancient cereal crop native to the Indian subcontinent. Its cultivation dates back to ancient times, with references found in historical texts such as the Brihad Sanhita. This millet species exhibits remarkable adaptability to various agroclimatic conditions, making it well-suited for cultivation across different regions. Kodo millet thrives in a range of soil types, particularly well-drained and sandy soils, which contribute to its successful growth and yield. In terms of nutritional composition, kodo millet stands out as a significant source of protein, dietary fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. Its bioactive components contribute to potential health benefits, including aiding in diabetes management, improving cardiovascular health, and providing essential nutrients. The processing of kodo millet involves various techniques such as puffing, roasting, milling, and fermentation, each influencing its nutritional profile and culinary applications.

1. Introduction Millet is a heterogeneous group of small-seeded cereal crops classified based on their morphology as major millet and minor millet. Little millet (Panicum sumatrense) are small millets generally categorized as minor millet cereal crops. It is a self-pollinated crop that belongs to the family Poaceae and subfamily Panicoideae with a chromosome number of 2n=36 (Nandini and Bhat, 2019). It is a traditional cereal grain crop widely produced in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Western Myanmar. Little millet is widely cultivated in the tribal belt of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu in India for food and feed (Ganapathy, 2017). Indigenously, it is commonly known as samai (Tamil), kutki (Hindi), savior same (Kannada), chama (Malayalam) (Table 1).

1. Introduction Millets, including foxtail millet (Setaria italica), are gaining popularity as “smart foods” due to their numerous benefits for the planet, consumers, and farmers (Anitha et al., 2021). Foxtail millet, classified as a major millet, belongs to the genus Setaria in the Poaceae family. It has a rich history, with archaeological remains dating back 7400-7935 years in northern China and cultivation in Europe around 4000 years ago (Lu et al., 2009). Foxtail millet is currently cultivated in 26 countries and stands as the secondhighest cultivated millet globally. It is a relatively short plant, growing up to 2-5 feet tall, and demonstrates high resistance to various stresses, both biotic and abiotic(Sharma and Niranjan, 2018). The crop’s short generation cycle of 5-8 weeks from planting to flowering, followed by 8-15 weeks to attain seed maturity, allows for harvesting within 75-90 days after plantation. Foxtail millet produces hundreds of seeds per inflorescence (Li et al., 2020).

1. Introduction Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum (L.) belongs to the grass family Paniceae. It is a perennial cropthat grows in summer each year as late-seeded summer crop (Figure 1). Its origin can be traced back to at least 2000 B.C. when it was said to be grown in the Central European regions. Proso millet plant thrives in dry areas such as Africa, Central Russia, Manchuria, Middle East and Northern India and North America’s Great Plains. Proso millet was introduced to Canada in the 17th century and used sparingly as a feed crop in the early 1900s (Rajasekaran and Francis, 2021). This is a low-demand crop and is utilised in organic farming systems across Europe and as an intercrop in the United States. Its shallow root system and resistance to atrazine residue make it a great intercrop between two crops that need a lot of water and pesticides. The last crop’s stubbles entrap more heat into the soil which promotes faster and earlier growth of millet. Hence, it can help to evade summer drought and achieve continual crop rotation (Kalinova and Moudry, 2006). It is an erect herbaceous annual crop with a lot of tillering. Its plant can reach a height of 45-100 centimetres. The stem is thin, with prominently enlarged nodes. The roots are thin and fibrous.

1. Introduction Millets have gained popularity as staple foods worldwide, particularly in regions with hot and humid climates. These crops are often cultivated in marginal areas where major grains struggle to yield significant harvests (Thapliyal and Singh, 2015). One such millet is finger millet (Eleusine coracana), native to Ethiopia, and widely grown in Africa and India, where it is known by various names, including ragi and mandua (Table 1). In many developing countries, finger millet serves as a staple for a substantial portion of the population, especially those belonging to lower economic strata, providing essential nutrients (Chandra et al., 2016).

1. Introduction Millets, one of the earliest foods consumed by humans, may have been the first cereal grain utilised in domestic cookery. It belongs to the Graminae grass family. The name “millet” describes a number of little-seeded grasses (annual) that are classified into five genera: Setaria, Panicum, Pennisetum, Paspalum, and Echinocloa in the tribe Paniceae, and one genus: Eleusine in the tribe Chlorideae (Pushpavalli, 2015). India ranks first in the production of millets followed by Niger and China (FAO, 2020). Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) serves as food, fuel, and fodder on a global scale. Since, it contributes up to 75% of all grain output in East Africa and several regions of India; it plays a significant role in indigenous diets. After rice and wheat, pearl millet is the third most significant crop farmed in India. Ninety percent of the country’s land is used for cultivating pearl millet, with Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana being the main states.

1. Introduction Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), a cereal grain belongs to the grass family (Poaceae), within the subfamily (Panicoidea) and in the tribe (Andropogoneae) (H.J. et al., 2005). It is grown throughout the world in regions with warmer summers and with daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F (Rai et al., 1999).After wheat, maize, rice, and barley, it is the fifth most significant and nutritious millet in terms of volume. While many varieties of millets are exclusively cultivated for human consumption, sorghum is widely farmed for – food and feed for humans and animals respectively (Awika, 2011). For millions of people in Africa and Asia, sorghum is commonly consumed as a staple.. In West Africa, sorghum is known as dawa, guinea corn, and sorgho while in Sudan, it is referred as durra; in Ethiopia,Eritrea and East Africa, mtama; in southern Africa, kaffircorn, mabele, or amabele; and in the Indian subcontinent, jowar, jonna, cholam, or jola.(Bantilan et al., 2004).

1. Introduction Millets are the Nutri-cereals belonging to the Poaceae family and are classified into two major categories: major and minor, depending on their size and nutritional composition. Most millet crops are indigenous to India and are referred to as “nutri-cereals” since they contain most of the nutrients needed for the body to function properly. Millets such as Sorghum (Jowar), Pearl Millet (Bajra), and Finger Millet (Ragi) are the millets that come under the category of major millets. In contrast, the minor millets category includes Foxtail Millet (Kakun), Proso Millet (Cheena), Kodo Millet, Barnyard Millet (Sanwa), Little Millet (Kutki), Brown top millet including two pseudo millet that includes Buckwheat (Kuttu) and Amaranth (Chaulai) (Saini et al., 2021).

1. Introduction Millets, also known as “smart crops” or “miracle grains,” are a group of small-seeded, hardy cereal crops that have been cultivated for millennia. They are used as a staple food in many of the countries particularly located in arid and semi-arid regions. Millets have been overshadowed for quite a long time by commonly consumed cereals like wheat, rice, and maize. Nevertheless, they have made a remarkable comeback in our cuisines owing to the growing awareness and recognition of the numerous benefits at individual and environmental level. These small, drought-resistant grains play a pivotal role in addressing some of the most pressing global issues like food security, malnutrition and climate change.

Millets or nutri-cereals are the ancient grains which have now regained the interest of the scientific community as the super grains. These exhibit excellent nutritional and technobiofunctional profile apart from exhibiting tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The millets are gluten free and show high in vitro protein digestibility, resistant starch content, antioxidant and prebiotic potential providing health benefits for all age groups ranging from paediatrics to geriatrics. The presence of certain anti-nutritional factors can lower the bioavailability of proteins and minerals. Processing enhances the nutritional and functional properties by increasing the antioxidant content and lowering the antinutrients. Different value added products can be prepared by incorporating millets thereby enhancing the nutritional and functional attributes. It is necessary to bring millets into regular consumption by the food industry in the interest of nutritionally and health-conscious consumer.

1.1 Introduction Amaranth is considered as one of the “superfoods” of the coming century due to its exceptional qualities in various aspects. However, the crop is not a novel discovery, and it has faced quite a number of obstacles in order to get to where it is today in terms of nutritional status and acceptance by modern day consumers as a food which is able to provide nutrition. Despite the setbacks and disuse, Amaranth has had three redeeming qualities that have earned its standing as a “superfood.”In recent years, the grain amaranths have garnered increased attention because of their nutritional qualities and, in particular, the nutritional value of the seed protein. Amaranth seed is higher in fiber (8%) than the grain of most cereals.