| ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture (ICAR-CIWA), Bhubaneswar, organized a three-day Capacity Building Programme from 16th to 18th September 2025 for members of the Jeevika Women FIG under the Custom Hiring Centre (CHC) established at Dhanahara village, Balipatna block, Khordha district. This initiative forms part of ICAR-CIWA’s continued efforts to foster gender-inclusive agri-enterprises. |
| Recognizing the scope of value addition in horticultural crops and the pivotal role of women in post-harvest management, the institute facilitated the establishment of a CHC dedicated to the processing and value addition of horticultural crops. To strengthen the group’s enterprise, essential equipment such as a spice grinding machine, vegetable shredder, potato peeler, gas stove, weighing machine, sack closure machine, and heat sealing machine were provided. These facilities will enable the group to produce a variety of value-added products including ground spices, garam masala, potato and tapioca chips, tomato sauce, and ready-to-serve beverages, thereby enhancing their income-generating opportunities. |
| The training programme, coordinated by Dr. Ankita Sahu, Scientist, ICAR-CIWA, was carefully designed with hands-on sessions and practical demonstrations on operating the equipments, tailored to the learning needs of rural women. The three days of training aimed to build technical competency, improve confidence, and promote self-reliance among participants in producing value-added horticultural products. |
| This initiative is part of ICAR-CIWA’s broader mandate to empower women in agriculture by promoting entrepreneurship, strengthening livelihoods, and creating sustainable opportunities through capacity-building interventions in rural communities. |
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