HYDERABAD, JANUARY 03, 2026: In a significant step towards strengthening nutritional security and promoting sustainable food systems, Hare Krishna Movement Charitable Foundation (HKMCF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ICAR – Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR), Hyderabad, on Saturday. The collaboration aims to promote millet-based food initiatives through knowledge sharing, recipe development, training, and awareness programmes.
This association brings together HKMCF’s extensive experience in large-scale food service and welfare programs with IIMR’s expertise in millet research, nutrition, and value addition, paving the way for healthier and sustainable dietary practices. Currently, HKMCF Partners with various State Government’s in Implementing Flagship Public Feeding Programs Like Indiramma canteens and Bhojanamrita (Telangana), Anna canteens (Andhra Pradesh) etc and cumulatively Feeds About 2.5 Lakhs Meals Every Single Day.
MoU Signing Ceremony Highlights & Collaborative Goals :
The MoU signing ceremony, held at Hare Krishna movement Charitable Foundation (HKMCF) Kokapet, was presided over by His Grace Sri Satya Gaura Chandra Dasa Prabhuji, M.Tech (IIT, Madras) President of Hare Krishna Movement Charitable Foundation, & Regional President, Akshaya Patra Foundation, Telangana & AP, along with the esteemed presence of Dr. (Mrs.) C. Tara Satyavathi, Director, ICAR-IIMR, Hyderabad.
The event also witnessed the presence of CEO of HKMCF, His Grace Sri Kaunteya Dasa Prabhuji, & other functionaries of IIMR and HKMCF.
As per the MoU, both institutions will explore collaboration in areas including :
Development and standardisation of millet-based recipes suitable for large-scale kitchens
Sharing of knowledge and best practices on millet processing, nutrition, and value addition
Conducting training and awareness programs for kitchen staff and beneficiaries
Promoting millets as nutritious, climate-resilient, and sustainable food options
Leadership Views :
Speaking on the occasion, His Grace Sri Satya Gaura Chandra Dasa Prabhuji, President, Hare Krishna Movement Charitable Foundation, Hyderabad & Regional President, Akshaya Patra Foundation (Telangana & AP), said :
“We are delighted to associate with ICAR–IIMR in promoting millet-based nutrition. Millets are not only deeply rooted in India’s traditional food culture but are also vital for addressing present-day challenges of health, sustainability, and food security. This collaboration will help us explore innovative ways to integrate millets into our food programs for the benefit of society at large.”
Dr. (Mrs.) C. Tara Satyavathi, Director, ICAR–Indian Institute of Millets Research (ICAR-IIMR), Hyderabad, stated that the collaboration with Hare Krishna Movement Charitable Foundation (HKMCF) is a timely and meaningful step towards translating millet research into large-scale societal impact. She emphasized that ICAR-IIMR has been at the forefront of advancing millet-based technologies, nutrition research, and value-added products, and this partnership provides an effective platform to mainstream millets through public feeding and welfare programs. HKMCF’s vast experience in serving nutritious meals to lakhs of beneficiaries every day and ICAR-IIMR’s scientific expertise in millets production, protection, value addition and value chain development etc. would significantly contribute to improving the dietary diversity, nutritional security and sustainable food systems. This MoU also helps in connecting millet growing farmers to big dedicated kitchens like HKMCF for supply of millets from farms, thus ensuring quality of raw material directly from farmers and enhanced income to the farmers. This is a step towards ensuring millets in every individual’s plate and diet.
Representatives from ICAR–IIMR emphasised that the partnership aligns with the institute’s mission to mainstream millets through scientific research, awareness, and capacity building, and expressed Confidence that this collaboration would contribute meaningfully to public nutrition initiatives.
Way Forward :
The MoU symbolizes a shared commitment to advancing nutrition, sustainability, and community welfare. This collaboration also reinforces the legacy of the International Year of Millets and commitment by India, translating research and policy focus into practical, community-oriented outcomes.
About Hare Krishna Movement Charitable Foundation (HKMCF) :
Hare Krishna Movement Charitable Foundation (HKMCF) is a not-for-profit organization engaged in large-scale food service and social welfare initiatives. Through its various humanitarian programs, HKMCF has been working towards addressing hunger, malnutrition, and social inequities by providing wholesome meals and value-based outreach to communities across India.
About ICAR – Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) :
ICAR–Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) is a premier national institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), dedicated to research, development, and promotion of millets. The Institue has been recognised as Global Centre of Excellence on Millets by Government Of India.
It is also a Secretariat for MAHARISHI (Millets And OtHer Ancient GRains International ReSearcH Initiative), a G-20 Outcome of India’s G-20 Presidency. The institute plays a pivotal role in advancing research on millet-based technologies, nutrition awareness, and sustainable agri-food systems in line with national food and nutrition security goals.
