10 November, 2024; In a vibrant rally held in Gumla, Jharkhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his enthusiasm about the state’s agricultural strengths, especially in cultivating “Ragi,” also known as “Shri Ann” in India. Addressing the crowd, Modi underlined his commitment to promoting Jharkhand’s rich agricultural heritage on an international level. He highlighted how Ragi, traditionally cultivated in Jharkhand, not only supports local farmers but also has a vast potential in the global market due to its health benefits.
PM Modi recalled a significant moment during his previous tenure when the White House hosted a dinner in his honor. Remarkably, Ragi was featured on the dinner menu, bringing a taste of Indian tradition to the world stage. He remarked on how this symbolic gesture illustrated Ragi’s global appeal, adding that it showcased Indian culture and agricultural achievements in a prominent way. This event marked one of the early steps in what Modi envisions as a worldwide appreciation and adoption of Ragi as a staple.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the cultivation and promotion of Ragi could uplift local economies, particularly in rural and tribal areas where it is grown. He urged the people of Jharkhand to take pride in their agricultural produce and to support efforts to elevate Ragi as a staple food worldwide. Highlighting Ragi’s nutritional benefits, he noted that it is gluten-free, high in calcium, and an excellent source of dietary fiber, making it ideal for health-conscious consumers across the globe.
Modi reiterated his government’s dedication to boosting the welfare of farmers and agricultural communities by facilitating access to international markets and advancing sustainable farming practices. He also stressed that such initiatives aim to benefit both farmers and consumers, who stand to gain from the nutrient-rich and eco-friendly food options that Indian crops like Ragi offer.
As PM Modi continues to champion “Shri Ann,” his vision for Ragi’s global outreach aligns with India’s broader mission to highlight its agricultural diversity and to promote nutritious, eco-friendly foods internationally. With this emphasis on Ragi, India positions itself as a leader in sustainable, traditional crops and celebrates the contributions of regions like Jharkhand to the country’s rich agricultural legacy.
