Lunglei, July 3, 2025: A training programme on Post-Harvest Management & Value Addition of Banana under the ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) initiative was organised today at the District Horticulture Officer’s Conference Hall, Lunglei. The training was jointly conducted by the Lunglei District Horticulture Office and the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA).
The training aimed to equip banana growers and entrepreneurs with knowledge and skills to process and add value to bananas — identified as Lunglei District’s ODOP item — for improved income and product diversification. Lunglei District Horticulture Officer Pu Lalṭhakima inaugurated the programme, while ATMA Lunglei Block Technology Manager Pi Zonuntluangi Pachuau highlighted the potential of banana-based value-added products and encouraged participants to fully utilise the opportunities provided under the ODOP initiative.
Subject Matter Specialist (Home Science) from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Lunglei Pi Zonunkimi Ralte gave a PowerPoint presentation on banana processing techniques, including hygienic packaging and market-friendly presentation for better returns. Representatives from the District Commerce & Industries Office also briefed participants on key government schemes such as PMEGP (Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme) and PMFME (Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises), which offer financial support to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Hands-on demonstrations were held, including practical sessions on making banana chips, which participants enthusiastically tried out themselves. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Lunglei District Horticulture Consultant Pi Liansangpuii Pachuau.
A total of 15 participants attended the training, including banana growers and processors from Rangte, Mualṭhuam North, Mausen and Lunglei town.
