Budgam, Nov 02: The Krishi Vigyan Kendra – Budgam organised an Entrepreneurs Awareness Programme (EAP) under Scientific Processing of Fruits through Beverage Making in collaboration with Government Degree College, Khansahib.
The programme approved through the Directorate of Planning and Monitoring of SKUAST-K and funded by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), GOI is under the patronage of Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganie, Vice Chancellor, Prof Haroon Naik, (P&M), Prof Dil Mohammad Maqdoomi, Director Extension and Dr. Bilal A. Lone, Senior Scientist and Head. The main idea is to create an enabling environment for enterprises to emerge and flourish thereby generating a skilled workforce in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Nargis Bano, Principal, GDC Khansahib, presented the welcome address. Speaking at the occasion, Principal impressed that such trainings are aimed at orienting youth to wide array of opportunities in fruit processing sector which is a promising venture for livelihood generation. He encouraged the youth to come forth and seek more information and technical guidance in areas of interest for establishment of an enterprise in agri-based sector. Since the area is in close proximity to Dodhpathri – an important tourist destination, she impressed upon students to explore opportunities in area of fresh fruit juice processing along the route of Dodhpathri through innovation packaging therefore promoting agri-tourism also.
Dr. Bhinish Shakeel, Training Co-ordinator, presented a brief overview of processing of Horticultural produce like fruits and vegetables and role of KVK in imparting skill-based trainings to youth in the processing sector. She briefed the trainees about the importance of beverages, classification of beverages with reference to Fruit Beverages and Drinks.
A method demonstration for Orange Squash was also presented. The programme witnessed participation of 51 trainees who expressed keen interest in the programme.
