The Techno Incubation Centre (TIC) for Jackfruit Processing at Tura’s College of Community Science conducted a four-day hands-on training programme on jackfruit processing from June 10 to 13.
Dean of the college, Jyoti V Vastrad, highlighted the vast but untapped potential of jackfruit in the region. She pointed out that Meghalaya is home to an estimated 4 to 5 lakh jackfruit trees, with the Garo Hills being particularly rich in this resource. Yet, due to inadequate processing infrastructure and limited market access, approximately 10.87 lakh tonnes of jackfruit, valued at around Rs 434 crore, are wasted each season across the state.
The programme brought together officers from the state government’s Department of Horticulture, officials from ATMA (Agricultural Technology Management Agency) and a few established entrepreneurs, focusing on enhancing their capacities in jackfruit value addition. The training was sponsored by Meghalaya’s Directorate of Food Processing.
The training was designed to address the challenges of post-harvest wastage by promoting effective utilisation of jackfruit through value-added products. Participants received theoretical inputs on food safety standards, hygiene practices and marketing strategies, followed by intensive practical sessions on the preparation of products such as ready-to-cook tender jackfruit, papad, chips, mixture, squash, jackfruit seed and bulb flour and pickle, a press release informed yesterday.
The valedictory function was graced by Vibhor Aggarwal, Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills. In his address, he lauded the effort in addressing a critical local issue through scientific and community-based solutions. He emphasised that jackfruit, being an abundant but underutilised fruit in the region, has the potential to transform rural livelihoods if properly harnessed.
Aggarwal encouraged the trainees to act as change agents by sharing their knowledge and skills with local farmers and entrepreneurs, thereby creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment and employment generation in the region. He also assured continued support from the district administration in facilitating such developmental initiatives.
