Skill Enhancement Training on Mithun-Based Enterprises and Horticultural Value Addition Concludes at ICAR–NRC on Mithun

14 August 2026, Nagaland

The five-day “Skill Enhancement Training on Mithun-Based Enterprises and Value Addition of Horticultural Crops for Sustainable Livelihoods” concluded today at the ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland, with a focus on strengthening farmers’ skills in value addition, integrated farming and entrepreneurship for sustainable livelihoods.

Organised by ICAR–NRCM in collaboration with ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Phek; ICAR–KVK, Dimapur; and ICAR–NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, the programme was conducted with technical support from ICAR–Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH), Medziphema, from 10 to 14 August 2026. The programme covered key aspects of Mithun-based enterprises, integrated farming, post-harvest management, value addition of agricultural and horticultural crops, natural farming and entrepreneurship development.

The participants received hands-on training in the preparation of pickle, candy, ready-to-serve (RTS) beverages, jam and jelly, along with practical exposure to value-added products from Mithun meat and milk. Exposure visits to the Mithun farm, integrated farming facilities and the Khonoma Mithun Conservation Unit further enhanced their practical understanding of enterprise development and resource utilisation.

During the valedictory programme, Dr Girish Patil S., Director, ICAR–NRCM, encouraged the participants to explore value addition of agricultural, horticultural and animal-based products as a means of generating entrepreneurship and employment opportunities. He emphasised that value addition can create opportunities not only for farmers but also for those engaged in processing, packaging and marketing. He urged the participants to utilise the skills acquired during the training and develop locally suitable enterprises based on available resources.

The programme concluded with a Farmer–Scientist Interaction, providing participants an opportunity to discuss their queries and explore potential avenues for adopting the technologies and practices demonstrated during the training. Certificates were also distributed to all participants.

A total of 30 farmers, comprising 15 men and 15 women, from six villages of Phek district participated in the training.

(Source: ICAR–National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland)