| KVK empowers women farmers with training on fruit, vegetable preservation | | |  Early Times Report
REASI, July 25: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Reasi, a part of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, organized a training program on "Preservation and Processing of Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables" at Dasanu village in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir. The program aimed to equip women farmers with valuable skills in preserving and processing seasonal produce, with the goal of generating more income and improving socio-economic conditions in the hilly regions.
Under the able guidance of Director Extension, Prof. SK Gupta of SKUAST-Jammu, the program saw enthusiastic participation from a number of women farmers from the area. Dr. Banarsi Lal, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK, Reasi, commenced the event with a warm welcome to the participants. He emphasized the importance of value addition in seasonal fruits and vegetables as a means to boost income and employment opportunities for rural women in hilly areas.
During the training, Dr. Banarsi Lal provided valuable insights into preservation and processing techniques, encouraging the formation of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs) to enhance profits. He inspired the women farmers to collaborate in establishing agro-processing units in rural areas, drawing inspiration from successful agro-entrepreneurs in the region. Additionally, he stressed the significance of preserving and processing organic fruits and vegetables for higher returns.
Dr. Suja Nabi Qureshi, Scientist, discussed the benefits of processed agro-products and demonstrated scientific techniques for preservation and processing. Participants received practical guidance in preparing pickles, amchoor, ampapad, juice, jam, jelly, candies, and more, with an emphasis on increasing shelf life through appropriate ingredients. Dr. Qureshi highlighted the potential for commercial-level value addition in fruit and vegetables to empower rural women economically.
Throughout the program, women farmers actively participated and raised queries, which were addressed satisfactorily by KVK scientists. As a gesture of support, organic inputs were distributed among the participants, promoting sustainable farming practices. A field visit to organic vegetable farms further enriched the learning experience.
The training also featured an esteemed guest, Smt. Sunita Devi, an awardee farm woman with expertise in processing seasonal fruits and vegetables. She shared her valuable experiences, inspiring and motivating other farm women in the area.
The program concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Suja Nabi Qureshi, acknowledging the participants' active engagement and the importance of such initiatives in empowering rural women through skill development and entrepreneurship in agriculture. |
|
