NBJK Launches Solar-Powered Finger Millet Processing Unit to Promote Nutritious Millets and Women-Led Entrepreneurship

09 October 2025, Khunti (Jharkhand): Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK), in collaboration with Collectives for Integrated Livelihood Initiatives (CInI)-Tata Trusts and supported by World Resources Institute India (WRI India) and IKEA, has successfully implemented a solar-based finger millet processing unit under the Murhu Nari Shakti Kisan Producer Company Limited (FPO).

This initiative aims to add value to locally grown millet, catering to the rising demand for nutritious millet flour, particularly in institutional markets. The processing unit is strategically located at Khunti district headquarters and serves the Murhu, Khunti, Rania, and Torpa blocks, empowering women farmers and local communities through sustainable livelihoods.

During the year, the FPO procured 88.07 metric tonnes (MT) of millet seeds, of which 86.1 MT were processed and sold as flour, generating revenue of Rs. 35.34 lakh against a procurement cost of Rs. 32.36 lakh.

“This initiative not only supports women-led entrepreneurship but also promotes sustainable agriculture and nutrition security in the region,” said Mr. Mohit Purty, Branch Manager of NBJK-Khunti.

The solar-powered processing unit stands as a model of innovative, environmentally sustainable, and community-driven development, reinforcing NBJK’s commitment to empowering rural women and supporting India’s millet revolution.