ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Kozhikode conducted a five-day training program on ‘Ginger Production and Processing’ from 11-15 November 2024 for 26 farmers from the ‘Khasi-Jaintia Farmers Association (KJFA)’ and five Horticulture officers from the Meghalaya State Agriculture Department and one promising entrepreneur. This training was sponsored by the ‘Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission (MFEC)’ of the Government of Meghalaya. The training was inaugurated by Dr. P. Rajeev, Principal Scientist (Agricultural Extension), ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode on 11 November at SJ Hall. The training included sessions covering key topics such as production technology, improved varieties, disease and pest management, commercialization, and developing farmers' varieties in ginger. Practical training on post-harvest management, processing, and value addition was also included. Field visits to the IISR experimental farm at Peruvannamuzhi, the ginger-growing fields of Wayanad districts, and the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), Kalpetta were also included in the training to gain exposure to modern farming practices, biodiversity conservation, and livelihood improvement opportunities in the hill regions. Dr. V. Srinivasan, HOD, Crop Production and Post-harvest Technology, ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode distributed participation certificates to the trainees after the feedback session during the valedictory function. Dr. Sajesh VK, Senior Scientist (Agricultural Extension) gave a vote of thanks at the end of the program. This training was coordinated by Dr. Maneesha S.R., scientist (Fruit Science), Dr. Alfiya PV, Scientist (Agri. Structures and Process Engineering), and Dr. Vinu V., Scientist (Genetics and Plant Breeding) from ICAR-IISR, Kozhikode.
