Abstract:
Climate change predictions warn complications in monsoon dynamics which will adversely affect the
production and productivity of major staple crops such as wheat and rice. Neglected and under-utilized
plant species are the plant species whose potential has not yet been exploited to the fullest extent These
crops could be the key to sustainable agriculture in most developing countries facing a resource crunch as
well as rapid depletion of natural resources. India is one of the main producers of minor millets and other
underutilized crops. The major group of crops includes small millets (finger millet, foxtail millet, barnyard
millet, little millet and kodo millet) pseudo-cereals (grain amaranth, buckwheat). In hilly state
Uttarakhand, improved varieties of finger millet, barnyard millet arid grain amaranth along with improved
packages of practices recorded 42% more yield compared to traditional practices. Similarly in Koli hills of
Odisha, tribal areas in Tamil Nadu and different parts of Karnataka, different small millets have been
successfully deployed as a viable alternative against erratic weather situations. Thus these crops can be
well deployed in contingent planning for erratic weather situations, crop diversification, dual purpose
crops for ensuring food and fodder supply and fighting against hidden hunger. This paper presents the
current status, nutritional significance and impact of successful utilization of these underutilized crops
under changing climate conditions to ensure nutritional and food security.
