Reviving the Abandoned Browntop Millet (Urochloa ramosa (L.)) for Sustainable Future Food Systems: Current Knowledge and Emerging Paradigms

Out of seven thousand known edible plant species, only a handful of crops satisfy the daily energy needs of the global human population. Although these crops constitute the main source of carbohydrates and energy, they are deficient in important minerals and amino acids that are needed for a balanced diet. The shrinking portfolio of crop species will have a detrimental effect on agrobiodiversity and sustainability of future food systems. Therefore, rejuvenation and incorporation of minor or orphan crops in the modern cropping system is one of the most effective strategies to combat hidden hunger and adverse effects of climate change. Browntop millet ( Urochloa ramosa L.) is regarded as the rarest of all the small millets because of its short life cycle, drought endurance, ability to thrive in a variety of climatic and soil conditions and dual use as food and high‐quality fodder. Despite enormous potential, the crop has not gained popularity among consumers and is almost abandoned. With emerging breeding advancements and policy support, there is a great scope to revive this ancient crop of immense nutraceutical potential from Asia. The main objective of this review is to provide an overview of the major production constraints and achievements made to date in various aspects, including breeding, agronomy, crop protection and the deployment of omics tools in browntop millet. Along with the state of the art on browntop millet, this paper offers concrete perspective on how contemporary breeding techniques might be applied to make it a competitive crop of modern cropping systems to revamp its cultivation. Our recommendations are widely transferable to other minor and neglected crops to address the issue of restricted genetic gain and low productivity.