How to increase the nutritional value of a crop?

The nutritional value of a crop can be increased through biofortification, agronomic practices, and genetic improvement.

1. Biofortification: Enriching crops with vitamins and minerals through plant breeding, e.g., iron-rich pearl millet, zinc-rich rice, Vitamin-A rich sweet potato (HarvestPlus Program).
2. Agronomic fortification: Application of micronutrient-rich fertilizers such as zinc sulphate, boron, and iron chelates.
3. Soil health management: Organic manures, crop rotation, and Soil Health Card Scheme (2015) improve nutrient uptake.
4. Genetic modification: Development of nutrient-enhanced GM varieties.

In Haryana, biofortified bajra (Dhanashakti) is widely promoted to improve iron intake among women and children.