A brief review on world of foxtail millet: From botanical characteristics to market trends

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica), an ancient cereal with remarkable adaptability and nutritional richness, is gaining renewed global interest for its role in sustainable agriculture and food security. This review presents a critical synthesis of foxtail millet’s botanical traits, agronomic practices, varietal advancements, nutritional benefits, post-harvest processing, and market trends. Unlike previous reviews, this study offers comparative insights into the performance of diverse improved varieties across agro-climatic zones, highlighting their influence on yield, nutrient uptake, and economic returns. It further contrasts foxtail millet’s market trajectory with that of other climate-resilient grains, underscoring its potential in both domestic and export markets. By integrating findings from Indian and international studies, this paper provides a comprehensive reference for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to harness the full potential of foxtail millet in addressing climate challenges, malnutrition, and livelihood improvement.