Kohima: ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Wokha recently completed a five-day training program focused on post-harvest management of horticultural crops. Held from June 8 to 12 under the Tribal-Sub Plan initiative, the course aimed to support tribal Self-Help Groups and Farmer Producer Organisations in building sustainable food processing businesses.
Thirty-two participants, including local women and rural youth, attended the sessions designed to turn agricultural produce into marketable products. Experts Megokhono Meyase and Dr B L Mhalo Tungoe led the theoretical discussions, which covered maturity indices for produce, modern packaging, and strategies for income generation.
The training featured extensive hands-on demonstrations. Participants learned to create low-fat banana chips, banana flour, soy milk, soy paneer, and green chilli sauce. Other sessions led by Deepa Singh focused on processing locally sourced plums, peaches, and mushrooms, alongside a full day dedicated to bakery production.
The program operated under the leadership of Course Director Dr Sandeep Deshmukh, who serves as the Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR-KVK Wokha. The initiative wrapped up with a valedictory session where Dr Khumdemo Ezung awarded certificates to the attendees. Reflecting on the impact of these skills, the organizers noted that the training was "aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship and establishing mini food processing laboratories among tribal communities in the district."
Comments