Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation plans to add a number of healthy millet foods to its menu in the spirit of the International Year of Millets.
Millet, a group of small-seeded cereals, is a highly nutritious and gluten-free grain that is rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. Millets have been a staple food in many parts of India for centuries, but their consumption has been declining due to the popularity of modern refined grains like rice and wheat.
According to IRCTC's top regional manager Ajit Kumar Sinha, all vendors in Uttar Pradesh, including 78 static units at train platforms, have been urged to include millet-based dishes in their menus.
By offering millet options in its food menu, IRCTC is not only promoting healthy eating habits but also supporting local farmers and preserving traditional crops.
Moreover, millets are an environmentally friendly crop as they require less water and fertilizer than other grains, making them a sustainable choice. By including millet in its menu, IRCTC is contributing towards sustainable food practices and reducing its carbon footprint.
The same directive has also been given to mobile railway units, pantry cars, and IRCTC restaurants located in government buildings, he continued. "The initiatives are being performed in connection with 2023 being proclaimed by the United Nations as the International Year of Millets," the IRCTC spokesman continued.
IRCTC said that among other foods, train passengers will be served millet laddoo, bread, and roti made of bajra, jowar, and ragi, millet kachori, millet khichdi, millet dalia, millet cookies, ragi idli, ragi dosa, and ragi uttapam.
In addition, millet-based dishes are cost-effective, making them an affordable option for passengers traveling on a budget. The inclusion of millet options in IRCTC's menu is a win-win situation for both the passengers and the environment.
