Participants and resource persons at the technology clinic on animal feed processing at NTTC Dimapur.
DIMAPUR, AUGUST 22 (MExN): The Department of Industries and Commerce, in collaboration with the Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation Ltd (NIDC), organised a two-day Technology Clinic on “Animal Feed Processing” under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme on August 21–22 at the Nagaland Tool Room and Training Centre (NTTC), Dimapur, with technical support from the Centre.
The clinic, themed “Enhancing Animal Feed Processing Efficiency through Technology,” concluded with participation from over 80 entrepreneurs and livestock farmers across Nagaland. The programme featured two sessions: Clinic 1 on Introduction to Animal Feed Processing and Clinic 2 on Product Formulation and Processing of Animal Feeds.
Dr Joshua Kath, CEO of Tepzen Agro Food and Farm Tech (TAFFT), served as the resource person for Clinic 1. He highlighted Nagaland’s continued reliance on imported animal feeds and traditional pig-rearing practices, stressing the potential of locally available feed resources such as maize, millet, tapioca and forages. He explained how feed choice impacts meat quality and emphasised developing local feed processing units to strengthen animal husbandry and boost the rural economy.
Participants were taken on a guided tour of NTTC facilities before Clinic 2, led by Instructor Mezovolhou Marcus Ovung, where they received hands-on training using the Corn Sheller, Corn Mill, and Electric Feed Pellet Machine to produce nutrient-rich feed pellets.
The programme was formally opened and coordinated by Er John Ruokuongulio Angami, Manager, NTTC, with welcome address delivered by Er Kenilo Keppen, Assistant General Manager, NTTC. Keynote addresses were delivered by Temjenyanger Jamir, General Manager, and Tzudir Jamir, Deputy General Manager, NIDCL, who highlighted the importance of agriculture, livestock farming, and modern feed production under the RAMP scheme.
The RAMP team also provided an overview of the scheme, raising awareness on UDYAM and FSSAI registration. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and closing remarks by Er Ebipeni Ezung, Assistant General Manager, NTTC.
RAMP, a World Bank-supported Government of India initiative, aims to improve market access, credit availability, and capacity building for MSMEs. In Nagaland, where MSMEs are gradually modernising, access to advanced machinery and technology is vital. Technology Clinics under RAMP equip entrepreneurs with practical skills and technical know-how, supporting post-COVID-19 recovery and helping businesses adopt emerging technologies to remain competitive.
