The Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Hub at Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU), in collaboration with the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, organized a one-day capacity building program on ‘Forward and Backward Linkages in Food Processing Industries.’
The programme which was held at Jyntru village was aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and promoting sustainable practices.
Funded by the Science for Equity Empowerment and Development (SEED) Division, Department of Science and Technology (DST), the programme was held to celebrate the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas or National Tribal Day.
Meghalaya Rural Bank, Nongpoh Branch Manager Paia L Mawlong who spoke as the resource person highlighted the crucial role farmers play in the community and discussed strategies for increasing their livelihoods through the value addition of their cultivated crops.
He emphasised the reliance of farmers on market values for their produce and the subsequent impact on their livelihoods if market values decrease. Despite various schemes and training programs provided by both state and central Governments to support farmers, many remain unaware of such initiatives, he said.
He further encouraged farmers to obtain a farmers’ ID from the Agriculture Department to gain access to various government schemes.
A total of 52 participants, including farmers and community members attended the program.
Principal investigator of the project and Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at MLCU Dr.Melodynia Marpna and rangbah shnong of Jyntru Moses Syngkli were also present at the event.
