MILLET SEED DISTRIBUTION TO WOMEN FARMERS
With the support of UNIDOS CONTRA EL HAMBRE, USA, PMSSS, under the project “Millet Growing project to Improve Rural Economy” distributed millet seeds to 11 women SHG members engaged in agricultural activities from Vadavalam Panchayat on 09.11.2026 at Chettiyapatti village. During Phase I (2023–2024), under the project “Start-up Project for Snack Making from Millets to Develop the Livelihoods of Marginal Women Farmers,” PMSSS supported SHG women with training, equipment and essential inputs to prepare and market millet-based snacks. However, the high cost of purchasing millet grains remained a challenge. To address this, PMSSS initiated millet cultivation among selected SHG members to ensure a regular supply of raw materials for snack production. Accordingly, 11 SHG members from Chettiyapatti and neighbouring villages were selected. They received orientation on soil and water testing, along with training on selecting suitable millet varieties based on local soil conditions. Finger Millet (Kelvaragu), Barnyard Millet (Kuthiraivali), Rice Sorghum (Arisi Cholam) and Foxtail Millet (Thinai) were identified for cultivation. On 09.11.2026, seeds were distributed to the selected beneficiaries based on their available cultivable land and requirements. This initiative aims to promote millet cultivation, reduce the cost of raw materials for snack production and strengthen the livelihoods of women farmers.
