Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) production in the 21st century

Abstract

Pearl millet, commonly known as bulrush millet is one of the most significant millet crops grown in arid and semiarid regions of the world. Pearl millet belongs to the family Poaceae, subfamily Panicoideae. Pearl millet is critically important for food and nutritional security as it possesses several advantages such as early maturing, and drought tolerance, requiring the minimum purchase of inputs, and being mostly free from biotic and abiotic stresses. Its grains have high protein content, a balanced amino acid profile, and high levels of iron, zinc, and insoluble dietary fiber. It has special health-benefiting properties for people suffering from lifestyle diseases like diabetes, obesity, etc. as it has high proportions of slowly digestible starch (SDS) and resistant starch (RS) that contribute to the low glycemic index (GI). Pearl millet is gluten-free and retains its alkaline properties even after being cooked which is ideal for people suffering from gluten allergy and acidity.