Millet farming is bringing new hope to farmers in Majalta, Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir, as communities embrace resilient and sustainable agricultural practices. With support from the Agriculture Department and increased focus under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), millet cultivation is steadily expanding across the region. Farmers highlight several advantages of millet crops, including lower requirements for fertilizers and water, a shorter crop duration, and good plant growth. These qualities make millets a practical option for areas facing agricultural challenges. The shift is also helping farmers respond to crop losses caused by animal and monkey damage to conventional crops such as maize. Encouraged by agricultural officials to explore alternatives like bajra and kodra, local farmers have started adopting millet cultivation. Today, millet farming in Majalta spans around 20–25 hectares and benefits approximately 200–225 households. What began as a move toward an alternative crop is creating new opportunities for sustainable farming, improved resilience, and greater agricultural diversity. The growing adoption of millets reflects how local knowledge, farmer participation, and institutional support can come together to strengthen rural livelihoods and promote climate-resilient agriculture.
