Directions: read the following passage and answer the questions that follow

The cultivation of millets, also known as nutri-cereal crops, plays a crucial role in addressing micronutrient deficiencies by providing essential nutrients such as calcium, fiber, protein, and iron. However, the declining cultivation area of these crops poses a significant threat to nutritional security in India, given the country's large population and prevalent micronutrient deficiencies.

The decline in cultivation areas can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the impact of the Green Revolution has led to a shift in cropping patterns, favoring water-intensive crops like paddy, sugarcane, and wheat, while neglecting nutri-cereal crops. Additionally, challenges such as low productivity, poor infrastructure, limited market demand, and lack of marketing and innovation further contribute to the decline.

To address this issue, the Indian government has taken proactive measures. In 2018, coarse cereals were renamed as nutri-cereals to increase their recognition among consumers. The government has also announced attractive minimum support prices (MSP) for millets to incentivize farmers. However, changing dietary preferences, increased competition in the cereal market, and perception/taste preferences pose challenges to the increased cultivation of nutri-cereals.

Increasing the cultivation of nutri-cereals carries numerous benefits. They provide vital nutrition, exhibit climate resilience, promote environmental sustainability, and offer economic empowerment to small farmers and marginalized communities. Recognizing their significance, the United Nations designated 2023 as the "International Year of Millets."

To further promote the cultivation and consumption of nutri-cereals, collaboration with the food industry, school and community programs, engagement with healthcare professionals, and encouraging consumer participation through campaigns and social media can be effective strategies.

Overall, concerted efforts are needed to raise awareness, enhance marketability, and incorporate nutri-cereals into dietary recommendations and public distribution systems to ensure their availability and accessibility, ultimately promoting their consumption and improving nutritional security.