Hyderabad: UoH’s School of Economics set to host workshop on millets in mid-day meals

Hyderabad: School of Economics at the University of Hyderabad is set to host a one-day workshop on February 16, focusing on the diversification of diets and the crucial role of including millets in the ICDS mid-day meal scheme and urban canteens across select metro cities in Telangana and Karnataka.

Sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) and the University of Hyderabad-SoE, the workshop boasts an impressive lineup of speakers. Dr. Jean Dreze from Ranchi University, Prof Mahendra Dev, Editor of Economic and Political Weekly (EPW), and Dr. Khader Valli, a Padmashree awardee known as the "millet man of India," will share their insights during the event.

The agenda for the day includes panel discussions on pertinent topics. "Challenges and Perspectives on Food and Nutrition Security in India" will be chaired by Prof R S Deshpande, former Director of the Institute of Social and Economic Change (ISEC), Bengaluru. Another crucial discussion, "Diversification of Diet: How do ICDCS, Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and Urban Canteens Fare?" will be led by Prof E Revathi, the Director of the Centre for Economic and Social Studies (CESS).

In anticipation of the workshop, Prof R S Deshpande emphasized the significance of addressing challenges related to food and nutrition security in India. He stated, "Understanding and tackling these challenges is paramount to ensure a healthier and more secure future for our nation."

The workshop also aims to shed light on the effectiveness of the ICDS Mid-Day Meal Scheme and urban canteens in diversifying diets. Prof E Revathi, who will chair the discussion on this topic, shared her expectations: "We need a comprehensive evaluation of the existing schemes to determine their impact and identify areas for improvement. Only through such assessments can we enhance the nutritional outcomes for the population."

Dr. Khader Valli, recognized for his pioneering work in promoting millets, expressed his optimism about the workshop's focus. "Millets are a powerhouse of nutrition, and their inclusion in public nutrition programs can play a pivotal role in addressing malnutrition and promoting a balanced diet," he stated.

With the participation of esteemed experts and thought-provoking discussions, the workshop is poised to contribute significantly to the ongoing dialogue surrounding food and nutrition security in India.