In a move to showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region, G20 delegates enjoyed millet based delicacies during the tourism working group meeting at Sheri Kashmir International Convention Center.
The Rural Livelihood Mission Kashmir had set up a special food stall the ‘Millet Hub,’ at SKICC Srinagar offering a delectable array of 22 millet-based delicacies which were served to G20 delegates.
Riyaz Ahmad Beigh, Additional Mission Director, Rural Livelihood Mission Kashmir told Rising Kashmir that with utmost thoughtfulness, the delegates at the two-day G20 event were treated to a millet-based breakfast and lunch, showcasing not only the region’s traditional Kashmiri cuisine but also its exploration of diverse culinary creations.
Reyaz said that this initiative was taken to highlight the nutritional benefits of millets and promote the International Year of Millets (ITIA), adding a divine touch to the entire affair.
He said that twelve talented girls from self-help groups of Rural Livelihood Mission underwent three weeks of training at the Institute of Hotel Management in Srinagar, especially for making millet-based dishes and snacks for the G20 delegates.
The motive behind the inclusion of millet-based dishes at the G20 event goes beyond mere culinary delights, Reyaz said, adding that Millet-based dishes were chosen due to their nutritional benefits, aligning with the International Year of Millets (ITIA).
“Through this initiative, the aim was to raise awareness about the nutritional value of millets and their significance in combating malnutrition”, he said.
Reyaz said that the enthusiastic response from the G20 delegates has been overwhelming, as they expressed delight and appreciation for the unique culinary experience.
He further said that many delegates commended the Jammu and Kashmir National Rural Livelihood Mission’s initiative, highlighting the extraordinary flavours, nutritional value, and cultural significance of the millet-based delicacies they have enjoyed.
“The positive feedback from the delegates has reinforced our belief in the potential of millets to transform the global food landscape”, he added.
