Shillong, Dec 6: A three-day capacity-building cum field demonstration programme on ‘Small scale entrepreneurship development for tribal community of NEH region – fisherwomen and youth in Meghalaya’ concluded today at ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region (ICAR-NEH), Umiam.
The programme, held from December 4 was organised by the ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT), Kochi, in collaboration with ICAR-NEH, under the ICAR-sponsored NEH Scheme.
A total of 20 members of the Ri Bhoi fish farmers producers organisation co-operative society actively participated in the training. Over three days, participants were given hands-on demonstrations on preparation of various value-added fishery products including fish pickle, fish cutlet, fish ball, fish finger, and prawn chutney powder. They were also trained in utilizing fish waste for the preparation of amino acids, promoting waste-to-wealth practices.
Technical sessions were led by experts from ICAR-CIFT, Dr. Sathish Kumar K., Scientist, and Noby Vargeese, Technical Officer, who engaged participants through interactive demonstrations. The training also covered hygienic handling, dry fish preparation, batter and breaded products, packaging, labelling, storage techniques, and regulatory compliances.
As part of participant support and encouragement, five-litre ice boxes were distributed to all trainees. Officials also announced the establishment of a small fish processing unit under the NEH component, which will enable members of the FPO to produce value-added products on a custom-hiring basis, fostering local entrepreneurship and livelihood enhancement.
