Morung Express News
Wokha | June 2
A one-day capacity building programme for export promotion of passion fruit, banana and ginger was held at Eloe Hoho Community Hall, Wokha, on June 2. The programme was organised by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in association with the District Horticulture Office, Wokha, Department of Horticulture, Government of Nagaland.
The programme was chaired by Y Shanchobeni Humtsoe, Assistant Horticulture Officer (AHO), who also delivered the introductory and welcome address. She underscored the importance of harnessing the export potential of locally grown crops and encouraged farmers to explore avenues for expanding their markets through processing, value addition and export.
During the technical session, Joydev Roy, Business Development Manager (BDM), APEDA, Tripura, spoke on the role of APEDA in promoting the export of agricultural and horticultural products. He elaborated on various APEDA schemes and support mechanisms available to farmers, entrepreneurs and exporters. Roy also explained the documentation, certification requirements and procedures necessary for exporting agricultural produce, while encouraging stakeholders to take advantage of government initiatives aimed at strengthening market access.
Speaking on the importance of food processing and preservation, Ruth Humtsoe, Horticulture Inspector (HI), highlighted the critical role of processing in reducing post-harvest losses, extending shelf life and increasing the market value of agricultural produce. “Value-added products such as dried fruits, chips, juices, jams and pickles can significantly enhance farmers’ income compared to the sale of raw produce,” she noted.
Humtsoe further stressed that food processing ensures better utilisation of surplus produce, minimises wastage and helps maintain product quality and food safety standards. She encouraged farmers and entrepreneurs to adopt improved preservation techniques, modern processing technologies, quality packaging and effective branding to meet market requirements.
“Value addition can generate employment opportunities, strengthen rural livelihoods and contribute to the overall growth of the local economy while creating pathways to national and international markets,” she added.
