Farmers-Scientists Interaction on “Advances in Production and Processing of Turmeric and Ginger”

    Farmers-Scientists interaction on “Advances in Production and Processing of Turmeric and Ginger” was jointly organized by Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA-North Goa) and ICAR-CCARI, Goa on 16^th February 2021 at ICAR-CCARI, Goa.

    Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director (A), ICAR – CCARI, Goa, in his inaugural remarks stressed on the importance of spices, their role in fetching additional income and urged the farmers to utilize the processing facilities created at the institute. Mr. Dilip Paranjape, Project Director, ATMA (North Goa) highlighted the importance of cultivation of turmeric and ginger in Goa and urged the farmers to take up processing to earn additional income.

    Forty nine farmers participated in this field demonstration oriented training programme. In this programme, farmers were imparted practical training and demonstration on various aspects of organic and inorganic cultivation of turmeric and ginger in Goa, crop management practices and appropriate harvesting stage. During the practical classes, A R Desai appraised the farmers of different improved varieties of turmeric and ginger, land preparation, different planting methods, pro tray nursery raising & its advantages, harvesting and various primary processing of turmeric steps including cooking, drying, polishing and pulverizing. Scientists, Technical Officers – Shri. Rahul Kulkarni, Mrs. Pranjali Wadekar, Shri Omar, Shri Yoganand Gaude and others, coordinated the overall programme.

    Farmers were also apprised that, under the Agri-Business Incubation (ABI) Scheme, this institute would facilitate them by providing support in terms of technical guidance, infrastructure facility (which farmers can avail by paying a nominal charge of Rs. 1500 per tonne), training and other hand-holding supports which the farmers might need to establish a sustainable enterprise.