Mysuru: The CFTRI millet centre received a major boost as Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh laid the foundation for a 30 single-occupancy hostel facility at the Central Food Technology Research Institute (CFTRI), strengthening capacity building in the food processing sector.
The initiative, supported under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, aims to expand training opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, self-help groups and industry stakeholders. The upcoming facility at the M.G. Halli campus will accommodate around 50 participants and include kitchen and dining infrastructure.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said innovations from the institute’s millet centre have already entered global food chains, including brands like McDonald’s. He added that similar efforts are underway to develop sustainable food products from regional items such as Kalari cheese from Jammu and Kashmir.
CFTRI millet centre drives global adoption
During his visit, the Minister reviewed the Centre of Excellence for millets and highlighted its role in transforming traditional grains into market-ready products. He said the facility integrates advanced processing technologies and supports value-added production.
Officials noted that the centre can process multiple millet varieties and produce items such as flour, semolina and ready-to-eat products. Technologies developed here have improved shelf life and enhanced commercial viability.
The Minister emphasised the need to link research with market access and entrepreneurship. He called for greater outreach to startups and MSMEs, particularly in ready-to-eat food segments.
He also stressed that scientific innovation should directly support livelihoods by benefiting farmers, women’s groups and small enterprises.
The new hostel facility is expected to enable more immersive, hands-on training programmes and increase participation from across the country. Authorities said it would strengthen skill development and promote entrepreneurship in food processing.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said the combined push for innovation and training reflects a broader strategy to position millets as a key pillar of India’s food and nutrition security.
