DODA: The Horticulture Department Doda organized a valedictory function marking the conclusion of a month-long training programme on the "Art of Fruit and Vegetable Preservation" here at Bhara Panchayat Southa, Bhaderwah. The programme aimed to enhance the processing and preservation techniques for rural women engaged in the fruit and vegetable processing sectors, with a focus on modern and scientific methods. Over 60 women were felicitated with certificates upon successful completion of the training.
The event was chaired by Chief Horticulture Officer R.N. Upadhaya, and attended by District Officer Bharat Bhushan Pangotra, Horticulture Development Officer Rohan Kumar, and other functionaries of the department. In his address, Upadhaya emphasized the importance of value addition through small-scale processing units, noting that the department provides a 50-60% subsidy to encourage the establishment of such units. He encouraged rural women to explore opportunities in processing fruits and vegetables to enhance their livelihoods.
The District Officer Bharat Bhushan Pangotra highlighted the significance of skill development for rural women, who play an inseparable role in farm activities and contribute significantly to farm income. He stressed the need for the establishment of units for drying, pulping, juice extraction, jam making, and packaging. Such initiatives would reduce post-harvest losses and create employment opportunities for the youth in the region. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Kiran Devi, the former Sarpanch, acknowledging the contribution of all participants and officials in making the event a success.
