Empowering Rural Entrepreneurship: KVK Shopian holds fruit beverage manufacturing awareness program

Shopian, Jan 09: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Science and Technology Kashmir’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra Shopian on Tuesday organised a specialised awareness program on entrepreneurship development through fruit beverage manufacturing to strengthen rural entrepreneurship in this south Kashmir district
Sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, the training drew active participation from over 60 rural youth, accompanied by KVK Shopian scientists and Horticulture employees.
The Coordinator of the program, Dr Shaiq Ahmad Ganai, extended a warm welcome to dignitaries and participants, providing insights into the program’s highlights. Dr Ganai delivered a detailed lecture on “Entrepreneurship Development through Fruit Beverage Processing,” emphasising the importance of skill acquisition for sustainable development.
Diverse topics were covered during the event, enriching the participants’ knowledge base. Dr Mir Shabir Ahmad, Scientist Veterinary and Animal Sciences shed light on the fortification of animal products into food items.
Dr Ghulam Hassan Mir, Associate Professor in Plant Pathology, discussed strategies for the prevention of post-harvest diseases during storage and subsequent handling.
Dr Bilal Ahmad Pandit, Scientist Horticulture, delivered a comprehensive lecture on the suitability of different fruit crops for beverage manufacturing.
Officials said the entrepreneurship awareness programme aims to uplift educated rural youth by imparting knowledge and cultivating skills essential for sustainable development. They said the active engagement of participants and the support of KVK Shopian scientists highlight the program’s significance in fostering entrepreneurship and enhancing rural livelihoods.