Techno incubation centre inaugurated under Mission Jackfruit
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, August 20 2024:
College of Community Science, Tura, under the Central Agricultural University (CAU), Meghalaya, inaugurated its state-of-the-art Techno Incubation Centre (TIC) on Tuesday, marking a significant step towards promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven development.
The initiative, launched under the Government of Meghalaya's Mission Jackfruit, aims to harness the untapped potential of jackfruit as a profitable business venture.
According to a press release made available to The People's Chronicle, the inauguration ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including the Meghalaya CM Dr Conrad K Sangma, who attended virtually as the chief guest.
The event was also attended by CAU, Imphal vice-chancellor Dr Anupam Mishra, and West Garo Hills deputy commissioner Jagdish Chelani as guests of honour.
Officer on Special Duty (i/c), directorate of food processing, Meghalaya, was also present at the event.
The newly inaugurated Techno Incubation Centre is designed to support the growth of jackfruit-based enterprises, providing facilities for cold storage, product processing, packaging, and quality control.
During the event, the dignitaries toured the facility, which includes processing units for jackfruit squash, powder, chips, and various other products.
An exhibition stall showcased the diverse range of jackfruit products developed at the centre, such as chips, flour, papad, crackers, cookies, and cakes.
A total of 250 farmers and entrepreneurs from five districts registered for the inauguration, highlighting the widespread interest in the opportunities presented by Mission Jackfruit.
The event featured an exhibition of innovative products developed by fourth-year students of the College of Community Science, as well as displays from state departments and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in the Garo Hills region.
A key moment in the event was the address by B Mylliemngap, who provided an overview of Mission Jackfruit.
She highlighted the project's achievements, noting'that 23 beneficiaries had received machinery and equipment for nano-processing units, with additional support provided to establish small and medium-scale enterprises (SMSEs).
She stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving the project's goals, pointing out that TIC is the result of successful partnerships between experts and institutions.
She expressed optimism about future collaborations aimed at expanding jackfruit processing and fostering entrepreneurship in Meghalaya.
The event also featured a special presentation by Perastill R Sangma, a celebrated jackfruit entrepreneur recognised by CM Conrad Sangma, who shared his inspiring journey in the jackfruit processing industry, demonstrating the impact of Mission Jackfruit and motivating aspiring entrepreneurs in the audience.
In his address, DC Jagdish Chelani emphasised the importance of incubation centres like TIC in empowering local entrepreneurs and strengthening agricultural value chains.
He highlighted the potential of jackfruit and other regional crops, such as turmeric and aromatic plants, to contribute to the region's economic development.
He expressed confidence that TIC would play a crucial role in adding value to these resources.
VC Dr Anupam Mishra, in his speech, thanked the Meghalaya government for supporting initiatives like TIC.
He described the centre as more than just a facility - it is a hub for learning, innovation, and growth in the agricultural sector.
Dr Mishra also advocated for the establishment of a specialised food processing institution in Meghalaya to harness the state's rich natural resources effectively and develop a skilled workforce.
Although the CM was unable to attend in person, he delivered a special video message emphasising the importance of TIC in advancing Meghalaya's agricultural and entrepreneurial landscape.
He expressed his commitment to supporting initiatives that foster economic growth and innovation in the state, the press release added.
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