Revival of Millets

Finger Millets, locally known as Nagali, is a nutrition-rich staple food of tribal populations in Nashik district. In 2016, however, Pragati Abhiyan, observed a clear decline in ragi production and thereby ragi diminishing from footplates of the adivasi people. This realisation paved way for the Nagali revival programme. This programme introduces improved agronomic practices for Nagali cultivation through awareness, training and hand-holding to farmers throughout cultivation, harvesting and processing stages. More than 2000 farmers across three districts – Nashik. Thane, Palghar – are using improved practices for Nagali cultivation the plots owned by them.

Package of Practices for Nagali Revival

Using Beejamrut

Treating the seeds with Beejamrut

Preparing the land for nursery

Sowing the seeds on the nursery bed

Ploughing and preparing the farm land

15 days old plants in the field on spots marked with the help of stick and rope

First weeding at 10-12 days after transplantation using cycle weeder or with hands

Preparing Handi Khat with locally available plants

Pest control by spraying Neem oil mixed with water

Ready crop

Estimating the production

Nagali is an important crop for us

Sangita Jadhav

The 7 acres of land that I own lies on a hill slope and its productivity is low. The farm pond that was constructed last year will become a water source for the coming season, however, so far I have taken crops only in the rainy seasons, such as rice, finger millets (locally known as Nagali), some lentils and oilseeds.

Farmer Who Took A Record Nagali Yield

L.B. Jadhav

Motiram Bhangare, Age 42 years, Ghosali village, Pimpalwati Gram Panchayat, Peth block, Nashik district, Maharashtra Call it by any name - Nagali, Nachani, Ragi, or Finger Millets - this coarse grain is integral to the tribal farming and foodradition . Nagali remains our constant, while the types and quantum of other crops may vary from year to year.