Observing huge quantity loss of harvested produce and vast potential for exports of fresh fruits and vegetables from the north-east region, a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) on \u201cPost harvest management of fresh fruits and vegetable\u201d got underway here at National Research Centre (Mithun) Jarnapani, Thursday with state horticulture commissioner and secretary, Sentiyanger as chief guest.\nThe training programme organized by Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH), Department of Agriculture and Cooperation (DAC), Union Ministry of Agriculture, Medziphema headquarter is being attended by representatives from horticulture department from all the north-eastern state exclusive of Tripura and Mizoram. The training is basically aimed to impart training to department functionaries of the region, who would in return train the growers in their respective states.
\nDelivering speech on \u201cMandate of CIH and objective of training\u201d CIH director, Dr. Akali Sema said that under Technology Mission for North East (TMNE) programme (centrally sponsored) many horticultural crops were now covering a large area with expected growth while large production was expected.
\nShe, however, lamented that there was a huge quantity loss of harvested produce, adding \u201cwhich is a waste of a year long investment both in terms of labor and inputs.\u201d Dr. Akali observed that \u201cpost harvest loss can be minimized by utmost care in handling the crops right from harvesting till it reaches the consumers.\u201d CIH director further pointed out that there was a great need for the \u201cgrowers to be aware and follow the proper ways of handling the crops right from harvesting.\u201d
\nEarlier, speaking at the inauguration programme, state horticulture commissioner and secretary, Sentiyanger urged the participants to open their minds and attentively participate in the training and avail as many information as possible.
\nHe expressed hope that the interactive session would enrich the participants as they learn from each other.
\nSentiyanger also said that as the representatives go back to respective places they would share their knowledge with their colleagues and farmers. Stating that \u201clearning is a life long process\u201d commissioner secretary called upon department representatives to curiously learn and get benefited out of the training programme.
\nThe resource persons of the training includes Dr. R.K Pal, professor, Division of post harvest technology IARI, New Delhi; Dr. B.C Deka head division of horticulture, ICAR, Barapani, Shillong and Dr. P.C Barua, associate professor, department of horticulture, AAU, Jorhat.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"