Lenovo supports millet revival in Kerala's Kanthalloor

Lenovo, the technology company, is contributing to the revival of six indigenous millet varieties in Kanthalloor, Kerala, by providing digital and technical assistance. As part of its Work for Humankind Initiative, Lenovo has established a digital centre at the Institute of Human Resources Development (IHRD) College for Applied Sciences, Kanthalloor. This initiative aims to facilitate the cultivation of six millet varieties, streamlining production processes, and establishing market connections, according to Pratima Harite, Lenovo Foundation Head of Asia Pacific CSR and Philanthropy.

Commencing in October, the project engaged 25 farmers in cultivating six millet varieties across 15 acres of land in its first year. The millet varieties include finger millet, barnyard millet, little millet, foxtail millet, proso millet, and kodo millet, with some traditionally grown for personal consumption.

"The farmers were selected by the village panchayat. They began growing millets in half an acre each, which was either vacant or vegetables were grown in them. Farmers have smartphones to access information and stay connected with the digital centre, volunteers, as well as the community," she added.

Lenovo collaborated with Samudra Network and Agri App to digitise the agricultural value chain specific to millet farming in Kanthalloor. This involved tracking crop details, digitising processing operations for quality control, and creating a market catalogue.

"We have already harvested 1,750 kg of millets and are expecting this to reach over 2,000 kg by March. Going forward, the goal is to increase millet cultivation in 50 acres in partnership with 50 farmers next year and also focus on increasing the yield further," said Saju, CEO of the non-profit organisation Dream India Network.

Millet holds historical significance in Kanthalloor, and the community welcomes the revival of traditional farming practices with the support of modern technology, stated Kanthalloor Gram Panchayat President Kanth Mohandas.

(With PTI inputs)