Ragi
Extensively grown in the dry areas of India, especially southern India and is a staple for the rural population of south India
Contains high amounts of calcium, proteins along with vitamin A, vitamin B and phosphorous. Its high fibre content prevents constipation, high blood pressure and intestinal cancer
Demonstrated ability of controlling blood glucose levels and hyperglycemia, making
it ideal for diabetics
Bajra
Pearl millet is gluten free and retains its alkaline properties even after being cooked which is ideal for people suffering from gluten allergy and acidity
Critically important for food and nutritional security as it has several advantages while growing such as drought tolerance, minimal input requirement etc
Grains have high protein content, balanced amino acid profile and high levels of iron, zinc and insoluble dietary fibre
Proso Millet
Important minor millet grown in India. It is able to evade drought by being a short duration crop with relatively low water requirement
It has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and also reduce the risk of heart diseases. It also prevents breast cancer among other diseases
Completely gluten free and has significant amounts of carbohydrate and fatty acids
Kodo
High protein content (11%), low fat content (4.2%) and very high fibre content (14.3%)
Regular consumption of Kodo millet is beneficial for postmenopausal women suffering from signs of cardiovascular disease like high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels
Easy to digest and excellent for strengthening the nervous system
Jowar
World's fifth major cereal food crop in terms of production and acreage
One of the most energy efficient crops in the use of solar energy and water to produce food and biomass
It has inherent drought tolerant nature and can be grown under wide range of environmental conditions
Foxtail Millets
Ranks 2nd among millets production in the world
Rich in dietary fibre, minerals, micronutrients, protein, and has low glycemic index (GI)
Used as an energy source for pregnant and lactating women
Little Millets
One of the minor millets popularly grown in India
Improves glucose metabolism their low carbohydrate content, slow digestibility and low water-soluble gum content
Barnyard
Good source of protein, highly digestible and excellent source of dietary fibre
Contains more micronutrients (iron and zinc) than other major cereals