India Millets Market Outlook to 2028

India Millets Market Overview

The India millets market is experiencing significant growth, valued at 17.25 million metric tons in 2023. This growth is primarily driven by increased awareness of the health benefits associated with millets, diversification in millet-based products, and the rising adoption of millets in urban diets, which collectively fuel market expansion.

Prominent players in the India millets market include Sresta Natural Bioproducts Pvt. Ltd. (24 Mantra Organic), Organic Tattva, Sri Lakshmi Venkatramana (SLV) Industries, Earthon Products Pvt. Ltd., and Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. These companies have established robust distribution networks, invested in marketing and brand-building activities, and introduced innovative millet-based products to capture a larger market share.

Britannia launched Millet Bread in April 2023, becoming the first company in the organized segment to do so. This launch aligns with the Indian government's initiative to promote millets, as 2023 has been declared the International Year of Millets by the United Nations.

India Millets Market Analysis

The government has allocated significant funds for the development of the millet sector. Odisha, for instance, has invested over INR 2,500 crores to support millet farmers. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is working to increase millet production and consumption by funding sustainable production practices, creating awareness campaigns, and developing markets and value chains. These initiatives aim to boost both production and consumer demand for millets.

The growth of the millets market has had a positive impact on rural economies by providing additional income sources for farmers. The market has spurred the development of new food products and culinary innovations, enhancing the diversity of diets and food choices available to consumers.

The state of Karnataka dominates the India Millets Market due to favorable climatic conditions, government support, and a strong tradition of millet cultivation. Karnataka's production of millet is driven by initiatives such as the Raitha Siri scheme, which promotes millet farming and provides financial assistance to farmers.

India Millets Market Segmentation

By Product Type: India Millets Market is segmented by Product type into Peral Millet, Finger Millet (Ragi), and Sorghum (Jowar). In 2023, Finger Millet stood out due to its versatility and health benefits. It is a popular ingredient in various baked goods and traditional foods, providing a gluten-free alternative for those with gluten intolerance.

By Application: India Millets Market is segmented by Application into Food and beverages, Animal Feed, and Personal care. In 2023, Food and Beverages held the significant share due to rising trend of health-conscious eating and the incorporation of millets into various food products such as snacks, cereals, and bakery items.

By Region: India Millets Market is segmented by region into North, South, East, and West. In 2023, the Southern region is dominant due to the traditional consumption patterns and dietary preferences in the region, along with supportive government initiatives that have boosted millet production and consumption.

India Millets Market Competitive Landscape

Company Name

Establishment Year

Headquarters

Sresta Natural Bioproducts

2004

Hyderabad, India

Organic Tattva

2012

New Delhi, India

SLV Industries

1984

Bangalore, India

Earthon Products Pvt. Ltd.

2012

Mumbai, India

Patanjali Ayurved Ltd.

2006

Haridwar, India

Sresta Natural Bioproducts (24 Mantra Organic): Sresta is a leading organic food company in India that focuses on promoting sustainable farming practices and offering a wide range of organic products, including millets. The company works with over 34,000 farmers across 12 states, covering nearly 195,000 acres of land. Sresta Natural Bioproducts filed a Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) in June 2023 to raise around Rs 50 crore through a fresh equity issue.

Organic Tattva: Known for its extensive range of organic products, Organic Tattva has expanded the market reach of millet products, promoting their health benefits. Their focus on quality and health-oriented products has resonated well with health-conscious consumers. In 2024 Organic Tattva has partnered with renowned Chef Vikas Khanna as an ambassador for its organic flour and pulses range.

India Millets Industry Analysis

India Millets Market Growth Drivers

Health and Nutritional Benefits: This nutritional profile has garnered attention among health-conscious consumers. According to a 2023 report from the Indian Institute of Millets Research, the demand for millets increased by 1.2 times due to their high fiber content, which aids in digestive health and weight management.

Sustainability and Climate Resilience: Millets are highly resilient to climate change and require less water compared to other staple crops like rice and wheat. This characteristic makes them an attractive option for sustainable agriculture. This shift towards sustainable farming practices is a key driver for the market.

Rising Demand for Gluten-Free Products: The gluten-free food market is expanding rapidly due to the increasing prevalence of gluten intolerance and celiac disease. APEDA, a government agency, has launched a variety of affordable, gluten-free millet products such as biscuits, peanut butters, and ready-to-eat meals and millets, being naturally gluten-free, are a preferred choice in this segment.

India Millets Market Challenges

Low productivity: Over the past decade, production of sorghum, pearl millet, and other millets like finger millet has either stagnated or declined. Millet cultivation is associated with low yields and profitability, which discourages farmers from growing them. It is also hindered by soil major and micronutrient deficiencies.

Limited Consumer Awareness: While awareness of millet's health benefits is increasing, a significant portion of the population remains unaware. The survey findings highlight that around 1.17 billion people, remain unaware of the health benefits of millets. This gap in awareness is a significant barrier to increasing millet consumption and market penetration.

Competition from Other Staple Crops: Millets were staple foods in India but gradually got marginalized after the Green Revolution as it faces stiff competition from more established staple crops like rice and wheat. This competitive pressure limits the market share of millets.

India Millets Market Government Initiatives

Research and Development Funding: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) allocated INR 500 crore in 2024 for millet research and development. This funding is directed towards improving millet varieties, enhancing yield, and developing pest-resistant strains. Such advancements are expected to increase millet production efficiency and output.

Export Promotion Schemes: To boost millet exports, the government introduced new export promotion schemes in 2024, aiming to increase millet export volumes by 200,000 metric tons by 2026. These schemes include financial incentives for exporters and support for participating in international trade fairs, helping Indian millets reach global markets.

India Millets Market Future Outlook

By 2028, the India Millets Market is expected to continue its substantial growth, this growth will be driven by sustained government support, increasing consumer preference for healthy and sustainable food options, and advancements in millet processing technologies.

India Millets Market Future Trends

Increased Government Promotion: The government has also set a target for India to be among the top three exporters of millets by 2025. This increased government focus will be driving greater awareness and demand for millets, this includes organizing virtual trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, and providing support to overcome supply chain bottlenecks.

Expansion of Organic Millet Farming: Technological advancements in millet farming, such as precision farming techniques, advanced irrigation systems, and high-yielding seed varieties, are set to significantly boost productivity and efficiency. Simultaneously, the expansion of organic millet farming is expected to accelerate, driven by increasing consumer demand for organic products and supportive government incentives. These combined factors are projected to propel substantial growth in millet production and market development over the next five years.
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