Why G20 Delegates Are Being Served Vegetarian and Millet-Based Food
The decision to serve G20 delegates with vegetarian and millet-based food at the summit is not just a simple choice, but a profound reflection of India's commitment to sustainable agriculture, health, and cultural diversity.
Demonstration of Indian Culinary Diversity
This move aims to showcase the diverse and expansive variations of vegetarian cuisines in India, with a special focus on millet-based dishes. During the G20 summit, foreign dignitaries and leaders were introduced to the rich and flavorful #39;Indian veg bonanza#39; through a specially curated vegetarian menu, particularly featuring millet recipes. Visitors like the US President Joe Biden and other world leaders had a taste of lip-smacking Indian street food and innovative millet recipes, highlighting the climate-resistant and highly nutritious coarse grains grown across the country.
Organizing the Catering
The catering at the venue, Bharat Mandapam, was done by the ITC, a renowned hospitality company. The menu showcased regional cuisine, street foods, and gave ample exposure to millets. Despite the diverse array of dishes available, the five-star hotels where guests were staying still offered a variety of options, including non-vegetarian foods. This was a strategic move reflecting a commitment to providing full freedom to the delegates while serving those who prefer vegetarian and millet-based meals.
Political and Environmental Implications
Some critics argue that this initiative is an imposition of a Hindutva agenda, but a closer look reveals that it is a clever and forward-thinking branding move for India. The discourse surrounding vegetarianism has increasingly acquired political undertones. For instance, Rahul Gandhi cooking mutton, a gesture perceived as challenging the Modi government's promotion of vegetarianism, sparked political controversies. However, the promotion of millets and vegetarian food at the G20 summit should not be viewed through a political lens. Critics suggest that this decision goes against the preferences of delegates from meat-eating countries, but this is a misguided point.
Delegates like the POTUS and other world leaders can still order their preferred food, and such expenses will be covered by the government. Therefore, limiting the dietary options for foreign delegates appears to be an overreaction. India's diverse and extraordinary food culture extends far beyond the popular perception of chicken tikka masala. One specific facet of this culinary treasure trove is millets, which are a staple in the diets of many people across Africa and Asia, particularly in developing countries.
Benefits and Popularity of Millets
Millet is a group of cereal grains categorized within the Poaceae family, also known as the grass family. These grains are resistant to drought and pests, and they can thrive in challenging environments. Millets are often overlooked on the international stage, but they offer exceptional nutritional value and are deeply rooted in India's food heritage. Although they may resemble seeds, millets possess a nutritional composition akin to sorghum and other cereals. They are gluten-free and rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, providing significant health benefits.
Millet-based dishes not only promote health but also aid in sustainable agriculture. The promotion of millets is aligning with global efforts to reduce dependency on conventional grains and promote crops that are more resilient to climate change. This initiative by India at the G20 summit underscores its commitment to addressing global challenges through sustainable food practices and cultural exchange.