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Celebration of the International Year of Millets by Embassy of India, Antananarivo at University of Antananarivo on 26 July 2023

Posted on: August 04, 2023 | Back | Print

Press Release

    The Embassy of India, Antananarivo in association with the University of Antananarivo jointly organized the celebrations of the International Year of Millets at the Agronomy Department of the University of  Antananarivo on 26 July 2023. The event was graced by the Vice President of the University Prof. Hajanirina Rakotomanana, Deputy  Representative of FAO  in Madagascar Mr. Aloys Nigiziyimana and Director of the Agronomy Department  Prof. Randrianariveloseheno Arsene Jules Mbolatianarizao. The event was also attended by more than 100 students and faculty of the University.


2.     In his welcome remarks, Director of the Agronomy Department  Prof. Arsene Randrianariveloseheno said that the International Year of Millets provides an opportunity to further strengthen research on issues of food security and sustainable development. Vice President of the University  Prof. Hajanirina Rakotomanana thanked the Embassy for its efforts to promote millets in Madagascar and hoped to enhance academic and scientific cooperation with relevant Agricultural Universities in India.  Deputy  Representative of FAO  in Madagascar Mr. Aloys Nigiziyimana noted that the cultivation of millets is deeply rooted in the cultures and traditions of the people of Asia and Africa. He also stressed on the need to raise awareness about the health benefits of millets and to strengthen the capacity of famers in Madagascar to cultivate millets.


3.    Ambassador Bandaru Wilsonbabu thanked the Vice President of the University for his support towards promotion of millets and also highlighted the Government of India's efforts to spearhead the global campaign on millets, including the planned India-Africa Millets Conference to be held in Nairobi (Kenya) in August 2023. He also briefed the students of the University on India's achievements in various fields and encouraged them to consider India as a preferred destination for higher education. The event witnessed a presentation on millets by Embassy's Teacher of Indian Culture and screening of a short video on India's efforts to promote millets. Millet snacks prepared with the assistance of local Indian Community were distributed on the occasion. The programme concluded with a Bollywood dance performance followed by exhibition on millets.


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