The Uttar Pradesh government is gearing up to give a major boost to the Bundelkhand region by establishing state-of-the-art millet (Shri Anna) processing plants. According to Dr. N. K. Bajpai, Director of Extension at Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, these processing, packaging, and marketing centers aim to promote millet cultivation, strengthen local processing facilities, and ensure that farmers’ produce reaches the market efficiently.
Under the Uttar Pradesh Millet Revival Programme, the construction of millet processing and packaging-cum-marketing centers has been completed in six Bundelkhand districts — Jhansi, Banda, Lalitpur, Mahoba, Jalaun, and Hamirpur. These centers are being developed through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
The next phase involves procurement and installation of modern machinery. Officials stated that all processing plants are expected to become fully operational by next year, directly benefiting local farmers. The Yogi government has allocated ₹95 lakh for each center to support building construction and equipment purchase.
Major Push to Millet Cultivation
Dr. Bajpai confirmed that the buildings for all processing centers are ready, and advanced machines will be installed soon. Once operational, these centers will:
• Significantly promote the cultivation of Shri Anna (nutri-cereals)
• Provide farmers with high-quality seeds
• Enable local-level processing and packaging of harvested produce
• Ensure better market access, resulting in increased farmer income
The centers will use modern technology to process and package various millet varieties, including bajra, jowar, kodo, ragi, kangni, and sanwa. Since Bundelkhand’s climate is highly suitable for millet cultivation, farmers will also receive improved seeds to increase production and profitability.
Plants Expected to Begin Operations from the New Year
Dr. Bajpai added that with construction work completed across all six districts, the focus has now shifted to machinery procurement and installation. The government expects that, starting early next year, these centers will begin distributing quality seeds and processing harvested produce—marking a new milestone for farmers in Bundelkhand.
