Medziphema, March 17 (MExN): A one-day hands-on training on value addition of sesame, along with an interaction with farmers, was organised at the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS), Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, on March 16.
The programme, held under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Sesame and funded by ICAR–Project Coordinating Unit (Sesame and Niger), JNKVV, Jabalpur, was attended by 20 women farmers from Medziphema village, Chümoukedima.
Dr Debika Nongmaithem, Assistant Professor, Department of Agronomy and Project In-charge, highlighted market opportunities in sesame value-added products and encouraged farmers to take the lead in boosting sesame and overall oilseed production in the state.
Noting Nagaland’s dependence on other states for edible oil, she urged farmers to explore oil extraction through Self Help Groups (SHGs) and community initiatives.
She also encouraged farmers to utilise their proximity to the university to access scientific support for improving agricultural productivity. As part of the training, value-added products such as sesame ladoo, til-groundnut chikki and flavoured til powder were demonstrated.
The programme was chaired by Dr Hillel Chishi, Guest Faculty, Department of Agronomy, while Prof T Gohain, Head of the Department, emphasised the importance of value addition alongside cultivation and appreciated the role of women farmers in the region.
The training included interaction with participants and distribution of inputs. Dr Lizabeni Kithan, Guest Faculty, delivered the vote of thanks.
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