Awantipora: Krishi Vigyan Kendra/Extension Training Center (KVK/ETC) Pulwama, under the aegis of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), has commenced a significant initiative aimed at empowering rural youth through skill development. The centre inaugurated a 7-day training programme titled “Processing and Value Addition of Fruits and Vegetables” tailored specifically for the rural youth demographic.
Sponsored by MANAGE Hyderabad and conducted in collaboration with the State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI) Jammu and Kashmir, the programme targets unemployed rural youth aspiring for entrepreneurship or self-employment opportunities within the agricultural sector, KVK Malangpora officials told Kashmir Reader.
The training programme attracted 30 enthusiastic participants from the region. Dr. Javaid Ahmad Mugloo, Professor and Head of KVK/ETC Malangpora, emphasized the pivotal role of KVK in fostering skill development and generating employment opportunities through such initiatives. He extended gratitude to SAMETI and MANAGE Hyderabad for their sponsorship and coordination of the program.
Dr Abdul Rouf, the Training Coordinator of the programme, enlightened the participants about the programme objectives and delivered a comprehensive presentation on the processing and value-addition techniques applicable to fruits and vegetables. The presentation underscored the contemporary significance of commercial horticulture and emphasized adherence to the food safety and standard regulations of India.
The training programme seeks to equip rural youth with the requisite knowledge and skills essential for pursuing ventures in fruit and vegetable processing, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.

BILAL HABIB