Srinagar: KVK Ganderbal organized a two days training programme on “Field Demonstration on Post-harvest Management and Processing of Walnuts” in collaboration with Division of Food Sciences and Technology, SKUAST-K under National Horticulture Board sponsored project entitled “Utilization of broken walnut kernels for development of Value Added Products” on 20thand 21stOctober 2022 at KVK Ganderbal,Shuhama. The programme was attended by Scientists from the Division of FST, SKUAST-K and staff of the KVK.
Dr.IshfaqAbidi, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Ganderbal highlighted the importance of Walnut in the economy of J & K and emphasised the popularity of Kashmiri walnut throughout India and abroad owing to its taste and quality. He encouraged the young trainees to take up entrepreneurial ventures in Walnut post-harvest and processing. The two day training programme included power point presentations on Walnut Nutrition and Post- harvest management and processing in Walnuts by Prof.(Dr.)Poonam Sharma, P.I. of the Project, Prof.Dr. Syed ZameerHussain, HOD, Division of FST, Dr. Abdul Rouf, Dr. Quraazah Amin, Haniya,PhD Scholar, Dr. Rafiya Munshi and other scientists of the KVK. During the sessions,health benefits of walnut in managing various lifestyle-related health conditions like obesity and diabetes were highlighted by Scientists from Division of FST. The trainees were also given demonstration on making Value added products like Walnut Chikki, Roasted Walnuts, Walnut Honey Dip and Chocolate Coated Walnuts.
The programme was attended by more than 40 participants especially young energetic girls, rural youth, farm-women and walnut growers.The programme concluded with Interaction cum Feedback Session between the Scientists and participants. The trainees expressed their satisfaction and wished for more programmes on Value Addition of Walnut in the future.The programme was part of training series under the NHB project conducted under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Ganaie, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K and guidance of Prof.(Dr.)Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi, Director Extension, SKUAST-K.At the end of the programme, certificates were distributed among the participants who expressed gratitude for such type of specialized trainings.

KR Desk