<p>Millets, particularly small millets, have emerged as a crucial solution to address global food and nutritional security. These climate-resilient and nutrient-dense crops, which include all millets except sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet, have the potential to make a significant impact. However, it is concerning that several of these small millet species remain neglected and underutilized in research and utilization. Given this, the present review highlights recent advancements in the genetics and genomics of small millets, emphasizing their potential to develop climate-resilient and nutrient-rich varieties suitable for cultivation in arid and semi-arid regions. Key focus areas of this review include the genetic basis of biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, as well as insights into their nutritional traits. The article sheds light on cutting-edge omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, to decipher the genetic determinants underlying climate resilience, productivity, and nutritional traits. It also explores the development of genomic resources, including genome sequencing, molecular markers, and trait mapping, which have significantly accelerated breeding efforts. Furthermore, the article highlights the role of genome editing tools, such as CRISPR/Cas9 and induced mutagenesis, in enhancing key traits to address global challenges. Despite these progresses, research on small millets remains underrepresented compared to major millets and other cereals. This review aims to bridge the gap by providing a roadmap for leveraging existing genomic knowledge and identifying untapped genetic resources to meet the demands of climate-smart agriculture, improve farmer livelihoods, and enhance nutritional security in the context of climate change.</p>