Dr. Dayakar Rao's Pioneering Role in Transforming India's Millet Ecosystem
Dr. Dayakar Rao B, a Principal Scientist in Agricultural Economics at the Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), has been a pioneering force in transforming the millet landscape in India. Since joining IIMR in 1993, Dr. Rao’s work has significantly contributed to the resurgence of millets as a staple food, driving innovation and establishing sustainable value chains.
Key Achievements in Millets:
1. Building a Millet Value Chain Ecosystem:
Dr. Rao played a crucial role in developing a successful millet value chain ecosystem, providing end-to-end solutions that have increased millet cultivation and consumption. His efforts have particularly benefited states like Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, with replication initiatives in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, and Uttarakhand.
Image credits: Open Magazine
2. Establishing Nutrihub-TBI:
Image credits: Facebook/IIMR
3. Commercializing Millet Technologies:
   Under Dr. Rao’s leadership, 22 millet-based product technologies have been commercialized under the brand name “eatrite.” These innovations have expanded the availability and appeal of millet products, helping to increase demand and market presence.
4. National Millet Mission:
   Dr. Rao was a key architect in designing the roadmap for the National Millet Mission, which aims to revitalize millet cultivation and consumption across India. His contributions have been vital in policy planning and implementation at the national level.
5. Innovative Millet Products and Recognition:
   Dr. Rao has developed over 60 technologies and 50 value-added millet products, many of which have been commercialized. His work has earned him several awards, including the “Innovative Scientist National Award” at the SIRIDHANYA-Millet Award 2018 and the “Best Incubator in Food Sector” award at the Agri-Food Empowering India awards 2021.
Image credits: Facebook/IIMR
6. Networking and Partnerships:
   Dr. Rao has established strong partnerships with national and international organizations like FAO, WFP, and ICRISAT, among others. His networking efforts have facilitated the signing of numerous MoUs and have strengthened the millet supply chain by integrating farmer groups and industry partners.
7. Millet Database Development:
   Recognizing the importance of data in driving the millet industry forward, Dr. Rao led the development of a comprehensive national database on millets. This digital platform provides dynamic and accessible millet statistics, aiding in better decision-making for stakeholders across the millet value chain.
8. Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing:
   Dr. Rao has mentored over 400 startups, helping them navigate the complexities of the millet industry. His expertise in farm gate processing, value addition, and market intelligence has been shared widely, benefiting farmers, FPOs, and SHGs engaged in millet production and processing.
Image credits: Facebook/IIMR
Dr. Dayakar Rao’s Visionary Contributions to the Millet Ecosystem in India and leadership have been instrumental in reviving millets as a key component of India’s food security strategy.
His work not only supports sustainable agriculture but also empowers rural communities, contributing to the larger goal of nutritional security and economic development in India.
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