Adaptation to poor habitats, poor resource base and production and consumption by poorer sections of the society have made sorghum crop an indispensable component of dryland agriculture. It is a drought hardy crop, can withstand waterlogging and thus excels over maize; it is also ecologically sound and environment friendly, demanding little pesticide use for crop management. Notwithstanding the moderate contribution of sorghum to the national food basket, this crop offers enormous advantages such as early maturity, wide adaptation, ease of cultivation and good nutritive value of both grain and fodder. With the green revolution and availability of fine cereals in remote places, proper disposition by value addition and establishing food, feed, beverages, sugars and alcohol industries will not only generate employment potential but also improve the regional economy. Sorghum is a valuable food grain for many of the world's most food insecure people. Much of Africa and India is characterized by semi-arid tropical climatic conditions. Sorghum is undoubtedly and uniquely adapted in the Afro-Asian regions. Sorghum in Africa and Asia is processed into a very wide variety of nutritive food products. Documentation, standardization, popularization and commercial exploitation of traditional products need attention. A large number of accessions are available. Proper selection for the requirements of the end users is necessary. Use of new biotechnological tools such as anti-sense gene technology to incorporate desired traits is now possible. Continuing focused fundamental and applied research is essential to unleash sorghum's capacity to be the cornerstone in food, feed, fuel and fibre sectors in Afro-Asian countries. Sorghum types of both continents are different; in Africa it is 'milo' based whereas in the Indian subcontinent it is 'caudatum' type. More attention on dehulling and debranning of red sorghum and mold resistance in white sorghum is anticipated. The future for sweet sorghum or high energy sorghum is also bright. Combined efforts of research institutions, private seed sector, industry and the government are necessary for its commercial exploitation. So far, there is a concept of developing an agro-based industry. However, we now have to think of industry-based agriculture.
