Prof Chandrakant Pandav, renowned as the "Iodine Man of India" and former Head of Community Medicine at Delhi-AIIMS, has emphasised the importance of incorporating millet-based foods into daily diets. Highlighting the historical significance of millets, Prof Pandav pointed out that this ancient crop has been an integral part of Indian civilization, with references found in revered texts such as the Bhagavat Puran, Yajurveda, and Upanishads.

"Millets have been a staple for centuries," Prof Pandav said. "However, the British colonial introduction of wheat in 1866 led to various health issues in India, including diabetes, digestion problems, and skin conditions." He explained that millets help reduce inflammation, a key benefit over wheat. "Millet intake can manage a broad spectrum of diseases like gastroenteritis and diarrhea," he added while speaking to Drug Today Medical Times at an event in Delhi. 

Prof Pandav also shared his personal experience with millets, noting significant improvements in his own health. "I haven't eaten wheat for the last eighteen months, and you can see how energetic I am," he said, underscoring the tangible benefits he has experienced firsthand. His personal testament adds weight to his advocacy for a millet-based diet, suggesting that it can lead to improved health outcomes for many.

Prof Pandav's advocacy for millets underscores a broader movement towards traditional and indigenous foods that offer numerous health benefits, particularly in managing and preventing chronic illnesses. His call to action encourages a return to these ancient grains to promote better health and well-being. This push for millets is part of a larger initiative to revive traditional dietary practices that align more closely with the nutritional needs and health contexts of Indian populations.

In a world where modern diets have led to increased health problems, Prof Pandav's message is clear: embracing millets can be a powerful step towards better health. His insights and personal commitment highlight the potential of millets to contribute significantly to public health, urging individuals and policymakers alike to reconsider the value of these ancient grains.