Workshop on processing of agricultural produce held

Mandya: A workshop focusing on the processing and value addition of agricultural produce was held at the Mandya zilla panchayat on Wednesday.Deputy commissioner Kumara emphasised that empowering women through opportunities in economic, social, and familial sectors is essential. He noted that women already play a crucial role in agriculture and allied activities, and through value addition, strategic branding, and strong market linking, they can ensure better income for farmers.Kumara highlighted the importance of strengthening Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), suggesting that local produce can gain a competitive edge through brands such as ‘Siri Samruddhi'. He added that agriculture is a profitable sector when technical knowledge is combined with value-adding processes.ZP CEO KR Nandini explained that initiatives like legal awareness programmes, FNHW workshops, and self-defence training aims enhance women empowerment, emphasising on the role of ‘Krishi Sakhis' and ‘Pashu Sakhis'.CFTRI experts, Usha Dharmaraj and Revathi Bhaskar, provided guidance on processing grains, millets, fruits, and vegetables, along with effective packaging techniques to extend shelf life. Participants were encouraged to train farmers and women's groups. The NRLM women's pavilion managed over 60 stalls successfully, at the at the recent Krishi Mela, Nandini noted.The programme's central objective remains transforming women from job seekers into job creators, fostering entrepreneurship through processed, branded, and well-packaged agricultural produce. The event was attended by project director S Sundar Raj, assistant project officer Sriharsha, scientists, and NRLM staff members.