FLO, the women’s wing of the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Coimbatore Chapter, celebrated the “International Year of the Millets, 2023” at The Residency Towers in Coimbatore. The occasion was graced by Padma Shri Khadar Valli, renowned as the “Millet Man of India.” The event focused on the theme “RISE & Reach out to the Community” and highlighted women’s education, skill development, women-led businesses, legal and policy advocacy, and women in leadership roles.
Khadar Valli, a distinguished independent scientist in the field of food and health, was the Chief Guest, while Sudha Shivkumar, President of FICCI FLO, and Sangeeta Chetan, Event Chair, were the Guests of Honor. Rama Rajasekaran, Chairperson of FLO Coimbatore delivered the welcome address.
Rama Rajashekran expressed her delight in having Padma Shri awardee Khadar Valli present, emphasizing his role in raising awareness about the health benefits of millets. She highlighted the important role of women in empowering the nation, citing the words of APJ Abdul Kalam. Rama Rajashekran also acknowledged FLO’s commitment to promoting millets at the grassroots level and the organization’s plans to introduce technology and support startups.
Sudha Shivkumar, the 40th President of FICCI Ladies Organization in her address, emphasized the strength and impact of FLO, which has over 9,600 members across 19 chapters. She highlighted the government’s willingness to listen to logical and fair ideas that empower women. Sudha Shivkumar encouraged active involvement in FLO’s initiatives for educational schemes, support for women-led businesses, and the promotion of leadership and excellence. She emphasized the importance of millets in achieving sustainable development and mentioned the UN’s declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
Khadar Valli, in his speech, acknowledged women’s significant role in agriculture and credited them for inventing agriculture and preserving the sovereignty of families and villages worldwide. He shared his experiences with millets and their positive impact on various diseases, asserting that they can contribute to sustainable development and address food security and climate change. Khadar Valli stressed the need to promote the cultivation, availability, and accessibility of millets, which can be grown on any type of farm with less water.
The event also highlighted FLO’s activities focused on women’s education, skill development, women-led businesses, legal and policy advocacy, and women in leadership roles. Sudha Shivkumar shared some of the key achievements under her leadership, including upskilling women, constructing toilets in an adopted village, and conducting various programs with influential speakers and writers.
Khadar Valli’s tireless efforts in reviving millets and his work on sustainable living models were recognized. His research and advocacy have brought millet food back into the consciousness of the human race, and he has shown that millets can prevent and cure various diseases.
