Una, June 19: A one-day farmers' workshop focusing on post-harvest management and processing of fruit crops was organized in the Baul cluster of Una district under the HP SHIVA project. Dr. K.K. Bhardwaj, Deputy Director of Horticulture, Una district, presided over the workshop.
Approximately 30 farmers associated with the Baul and Baul-2 clusters participated enthusiastically. During the event, farmers were provided with vital information regarding the improved management, processing, and marketing of fruit crops such as guava, Malta (sweet orange), and pomegranate.
Shravansaheb Bendre, an expert from Grant Thornton, provided detailed information to the farmers on scientific harvesting, grading, packing, storage, and modern marketing techniques for fruit crops. He explained that farmers could earn additional income by securing better prices for their produce through processing and value addition.
He highlighted the potential for creating various value-added products, such as jam, jelly, nectar, pulp, and squash from guava; juice, squash, concentrate, and murabba (preserve) from Malta; and juice, syrup, and *anardana* (dried pomegranate seeds) from pomegranate. He stated that adopting processing methods while maintaining quality is an effective step towards the economic strengthening of farmers.
On this occasion, Rekha Chauhan, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Baul, urged farmers to derive maximum benefit from the HP SHIVA project. She remarked that horticulture could be developed into a profitable business by adopting modern techniques and scientific methods.
Horticulture Development Officer Dr. Virendra Kumar, Horticulture Extension Officers Anupam Sharma and Vandana, along with other departmental officials and staff, were present at the event.