In a bid to create a market value chain for millets in Kerala and promote the fusion of millets with fish as a balanced diet, the Ernakulam Krishi Vigyan Kendra of the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) is gearing up to organize a millet-fish festival from December 28-30.
Gopalakrishnan, Director of CMFRI, highlighted the potential of combining millets and fish to create a wholesome and nutritional diet, enriching the diverse cuisine of Kerala. To raise awareness and popularize these dishes, the institute aims to bring together millet farmers, farmer producer companies, agri-startups, fish processors, traders, fish lovers, and consumers during the festival.
Gopalakrishnan emphasized the importance of connecting farmers with markets and encouraging healthy culinary combinations through start-up initiatives. The festival will feature a Lakshadweep farmers’ stall showcasing indigenous farm produce and food products from the islands.
The event will also host a buyer-seller meet, providing a platform for traders and consumers to engage directly with primary producers of high-quality food and agricultural products. Additionally, the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research in Kozhikode will contribute authentic ingredients to enhance the taste of millet-fish combo dishes during the festival.
The initiative aligns with the broader goal of promoting sustainable farming practices and creating a market ecosystem that benefits both farmers and consumers.