International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Gyaneswari Beshra and RP Singh Ratan

abstract
The food system of the world especially in the India is increasingly threatened by climate change, population expansion, malnutrition and incipient health disorders. This paper discuss the role of millets in food and nutritional security of the Munda tribal people in Tamar block of Ranchi district, Jharkhand. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative insights from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with quantitative data derived from structured household surveys. The results indicate that millets particularly finger millet contribute significantly to seasonal food access and nutritional sufficiency, especially during time of scarcity. Millets were eaten by 56 per cent of the respondents between December and April, testifying to their significance in conventional food systems. Rich in protein, dietary fiber, five essential vitamins, and vital minerals like calcium and iron, millets help address widespread micronutrient deficiencies commonly found among tribal communities. The paper emphasizes their nutritional advantages of low glycemic index, gastrointestinal benefits and capacity for anaemia prevention and diabetes management. Gathered data also shows that forest items, insects, wild animals and other foods locally available complement the tribal diet, supporting both biodiversity preservation and food diversity. Nutritional content analysis of the finger millet samples verifies its high content of nutrients, supporting its potential in under-nutrition prevention as well as in sustaining food systems. This study highlights the imperative to revive and popularize millet-based traditional diet in order to improve food and nutritional security, particularly among vulnerable tribal communities in climate-vulnerable areas.