Why are Indian farmers like Malleshappa Chatham switching from corn to millet this season?

Farmers are switching to millet because it requires much less rainfall, thrives in poor soils, needs about 70% less water than rice, and is less prone to pest infestations compared to corn — making it a resilient, low-input insurance policy against the weak monsoon and drier-than-normal conditions linked to El Niño.

What role is the Indian government playing in promoting millet cultivation amid the weak monsoon?

The Indian government has urged farmers to switch to less water-intensive crops such as millet, pulses, and oilseeds in anticipation of lower yields and food inflation, and has identified over 300 districts — including parts of Karnataka — as vulnerable to below-normal rainfall.

India's Weak Monsoon Revives Push for This Ancient Food Staple

Jul 17, 2026

Driven by weak monsoons and climate concerns, Indian farmers are shifting to drought-resistant millet production. Major food companies like PepsiCo are incorporating the grain into products, supported by government incentives and rising health-conscious demand.

bloomberg

2026-07-17

India's Weak Monsoon Revives Push for This Ancient Food Staple

India's Weak Monsoon Revives Push for This Ancient Food Staple

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