This article focuses on the statistical figures relating to the production and export of Indian millets. The data is compiled using the verified government reports. Pertinent facts and figures are analyzed, compared, and reproduced herein below in the form of dynamic charts and tables.
If you want to know about the millets as a food-grain, their health benefits, and socio-economic impacts, please check our comprehensive article on the millets.
For now, let’s dive into the millets’ data.
In 2023, India produced 17.32 million metric tons (MMT) of millets, which is an 8.80% increase in the annual output compared to 15.92 MMT in 2021-22. India accounts for 80% of Asia’s output and 19% of the global (96 MMT) millet production.
Millets are grown across many states in India, however, top 03 states contribute over 55% of the total output. Check-out the below chart to learn about state-wise contribution to India’s millets production.
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Interestingly, two of the varieties, i.e., Pearl millet and Sorghum, contribute about 88% to the total millets’ production. These millets, along with Finger millet, are called the ‘major millets’. The rest of the millets fall under a category known as the ‘small millets’.
The below table shows variety-wise millets production in India. This data is useful for the new entrepreneurs who are conducting the primary research or working on the millets-based business plan.
Variety-wise Production of Indian Millets | 2022-23
| MILLET VARIETY | PRODUCTION (MMT) | SHARE (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl Millet | 11.43 | 66% |
| Sorghum | 3.81 | 22% |
| Finger Millet | 1.69 | 10% |
| Small Millets | 0.39 | 2% |
| TOTAL | 17.32 | 100% |
India, alongside Africa, stands out as the largest consumer of millets globally. Traditionally consumed as food grains for humans and fodder for animals, millets are now gaining traction in the food industry due to their recognized health benefits and awareness campaigns.
Export of Indian Millets | 2022-23
During 2022-23, the export of Millets and Millets related products from the country has been shipped worth of 1,69,049.11 metric tons valued at US$ 75.45 million against US$ 62.95 million of 2021-22. The government is also promoting millets through various policies and awareness programs. APEDA has been entrusted with the task of creating new markets and promote the exports of Indian millets.
African countries are one of the top millet consumers; India can apply targeted efforts for the countries located in the Sahel region of the Africa. Also, the USA and some other western countries may emerge as new markets for value-added millet products for their gluten-free property.
Top 05 Millets Producing Countries in the World | 2020
| SR. NO. | COUNTRY | SHARE (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | 19% |
| 2 | USA | 11% |
| 3 | Nigeria | 9% |
| 4 | China | 7% |
| 5 | Ethiopia | 7% |
| 6 | Other Countries Combined | 47% |
| – | TOTAL | 100% |
As per the latest (2023) USDA information, the top 06 millet producing nations are India, Niger, China, Nigeria, Mali, and Sudan, respectively. World data may slightly differ compared to the domestic data. Consider the fact that the global data often include only “Pearl millet” while presenting the millets’ data. The rest of the varieties are either separately dealt with or included in the other cereal grains / nutri-grains.
World’s top millet exporting countries are India, USA, Argentina, Australia, Canada, Russia, and France. While the major importers are China, Japan, Germany, Mexico, Indonesia, and Kenya.
