Field evaluation and nutritional benefits of finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.)

(Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) is an important crop used for food, forage and industrial products. High diversity of finger millet exists in the mid hills of Nepal. Out of 15 species reported in the world, three of them namely Elusine coracana, E. indica and E. aegyptica are found in Nepal. The substantial variations in finger millet genotypes were reported in previous studies for their agro morphology, nutrient composition, stability and economic analysis. This study covers the production status, morphological evaluation, economic and health benefits. Finger millet has a wide ecological and geographical adaptability and resilience to various agro-climatic adversities; hence it is highly suited to drought condition and marginal land and requires low external input in cultivation. Nutritionally it is superior to major cereal crops and rich source of micronutrients such as calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and iron. It has several health benefits. This study will help the researchers to get information on finger millet. It may serve as information source for farmers, researchers and stakeholders who are involved in finger millet research and development.