Collaboration between KVK-ETC, SKUAST-K aims to enhance walnut industry skills

Awantipora: Krishi Vigyan Kendra/Extension Training Centra Malangpora in collaboration with Division of Food Sciences and Technology, SKUAST-Kashmir inaugurated the 5-day training programme on “Skill development in walnut processing” at KVK-ETC Malangpora Pulwama on Monday, officials said.
The programme is sponsored by the National Horticulture Board under the project entitled “Utilization of broken walnut kernels for development of value-added products”. The programme aims to acquaint participants with the multifaceted aspect of the walnut industry from the basics of walnut harvesting to the intricate scientific methods of processing and value addition to increase its demand in the international market.
Prof. and Head, KVK/ETC Pulwama, Dr Javaid Ahmad Mugloo, highlighted the importance of walnuts in the economy of J&K and emphasised the popularity of Kashmiri walnuts throughout India and abroad for their taste and quality. He encouraged the young trainees to take up entrepreneurial ventures in post-harvest and processing of walnuts.
Dr. Poonam Sharma, PI of the Project gave a brief introduction of the project and its importance in employment generation. She along with Dr Tawseef Ah Wani (Scientist KVK Pulwama) made an impactful demonstration on the preparation of different products like Walnut Choco Rocks, Walnut Chocoloony, Walnut Chococoons and Walnut Fudge in the post-lunch practical session.
During this five-day training programme, the participants will be sensitised about post-harvest management and processing in Walnuts including hands-on practical exposure to different walnut product preparations. Resource persons from different faculties/Stations of SKUAST are invited to deliberate on different topics to make it more holistic, KVK Malangpora officials told Kashmir Reader.
25 participants including young energetic girls, rural youth, and walnut growers have registered in the programme. The programme is part of a training series under the NHB project conducted under the leadership of Prof. (Dr) Nazir Ahmad Ganaie, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir and guidance of Prof. (Dr) Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir.

BILAL HABIB