Early Times Report
REASI, Oct 16: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Reasi, operating under the Directorate of Extension at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Jammu (SKUAST-J), is actively promoting and educating farmers about value addition in spices in rural areas. This initiative is being carried out under the guidance of Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. BN Tripathi, and Director Extension, Prof. SK Gupta of SKUAST-J.
Dr. Banarsi Lal, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK, Reasi, highlighted the significant potential in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir, for spices production, including garlic, turmeric, ginger, chilli, coriander, fennel, fenugreek, and more. He emphasized that through value addition in spices, farmers can increase their returns. Dr. Lal encouraged farmers to transition from subsistence to commercial spices production to enhance their income and employment opportunities, ultimately becoming agri-entrepreneurs in rural areas.
KVK is actively guiding farmers on spices production, processing, packaging, labeling, branding, and marketing management practices for value-added spice products. Dr. Lal stressed the importance of adopting scientific practices to boost spice production and processing, subsequently improving the socio-economic status of farmers. He also encouraged the formation of Self Help Groups (SHGs), especially among women farmers, to embark on agri-entrepreneurship and access micro-finance from commercial banks.
Dr. Suja Nabi Qureshi, Scientist, added that KVK provides guidance on spice production technologies, particularly in hilly areas where there is immense potential for organic spice production. He highlighted the growing popularity of value-added spice products in the market due to their unique taste and flavor, along with their medicinal and nutritional properties.
Notably, value-added products like Tikki Masala are gaining popularity as they incorporate different spice ingredients mixed and ground together. This initiative has encouraged new rural women to adopt these technologies and explore opportunities in the market. |
