PM Modi's Epic Culinary Spread: From 'Khandvi' and 'Kolhapuri' to 'Malpua,' Delights Served to Pacific Nations' Leaders

Indian cuisine took center stage as Prime Minister Modi hosted a sumptuous banquet lunch for leaders attending the third India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit in Papua New Guinea. The event showcased the rich diversity of Indian flavors, with a special emphasis on incorporating nutritious millets into the menu. This culinary extravaganza served as a delightful reflection of India's vibrant food culture and its commitment to fostering international partnerships.

Prime Minister Modi, accompanied by his Papua New Guinea counterpart James Marape, jointly organized a significant summit between India and 14 Pacific island nations, aimed at bolstering bilateral relations. Notably, PM Modi's visit to the Pacific nation marks a historic milestone as the first-ever visit by an Indian prime minister.

During the summit, a delectable lunch was served, showcasing a diverse array of Indian flavors. The menu featured culinary delights such as Khandvi, a popular delicacy from PM Modi's home state of Gujarat. Additionally, a millet and vegetable soup, incorporating Kodo millet and highland vegetables, was served alongside cornbread. The feast continued with malai kofta, a rich kofta curry simmered with cottage cheese and vegetable balls, followed by Rajasthani ragi gatta curry, a unique dish consisting of finger millet and gram flour dumplings cooked in a tangy gravy.

Completing the gastronomic journey were vegetable Kolhapuri, a mixed vegetable dish prepared with traditional Indian onion-tomato gravy, and dal panchmel, a medley of lentils cooked in the distinct Mewar style.

This culinary extravaganza not only celebrated the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine but also symbolized the shared cultural ties and the desire to strengthen relationships between India and the Pacific island nations.

Prime Minister Modi showcased the richness of Indian cuisine, featuring mouthwatering dishes such as millet biryani, prepared with nutrient-rich barnyard millet, and vegetable biryani. Accompanying the flavorful meal were nannu fulka, a delectable bread made from wheat flour

The culinary journey continued with a delightful selection of desserts and beverages. Guests were treated to masala chaas, a refreshing drink made with creamy yogurt and Indian spices, while paan kulfi, an Indian dessert infused with the flavors of betel leaves, offered a unique and satisfying treat. To complete the feast, malpua with rabdi, a delectable Indian sweet pancake served with a rich milk-based dessert, delighted the taste buds of those in attendance.

The inclusion of millets in the menu highlighted India's emphasis on promoting these nutritious grains and raising awareness about food security and nutrition. PM Modi aptly coined the term "Shree Anna" to give a new meaning and dimension to millets, signifying their significance in providing sustenance and nourishment.

Furthermore, India's initiative led to the United Nations General Assembly declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets in March 2021, further emphasizing their importance globally. Millets have a rich history, being one of the first crops cultivated in Asia and Africa. Over time, they became a vital food source for advanced civilizations across the world, showcasing their enduring value and relevance.

The banquet not only celebrated India's culinary heritage but also showcased the country's commitment to promoting healthy and sustainable food choices, demonstrating the fusion of tradition, innovation, and global leadership in the realm of nutrition.

Millets, among the oldest known foods to humanity, are small-seeded and robust crops that thrive in diverse and challenging environments with minimal inputs. Their adaptability to climate variations makes them an invaluable asset in agriculture.

To strengthen the millet value chain and promote self-sufficiency, countries must focus on improved varieties, enhanced shelf life, efficient processing, and better access to markets. By doing so, nations can reduce their reliance on imported cereal grains and enhance their food security.

India cultivates a variety of millets, including Jowar (sorghum), Bajra (pearl millet), Ragi (finger millet), Jhangora (barnyard millet), Barri (common millet), Kangni (foxtail/Italian millet), Kodra (kodo millet), and more.

Millets are not only versatile but also packed with essential nutrients such as proteins, antioxidants, minerals, and other vital elements. They offer numerous health benefits, including the ability to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Being gluten-free, millets serve as an ideal dietary choice for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

With their low glycemic index, millets are a perfect daily consumption option for people managing diabetes and related conditions. They provide sustained energy release and help regulate blood sugar levels effectively.

Incorporating millets into one's diet offers a wholesome and nutritious alternative, contributing to overall well-being and promoting a balanced lifestyle.

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