The Fruit Preservation Factory at Nilakuthi, India, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture & Soil Conservation, Manipur, and ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (ICAR-CCRI), Nagpur, has formalized a Memorandum of Technology Licence Agreement. This agreement, signed at the Farmers' Training Hall, Agriculture Department, Sanjenthong, involves Agriculture Director K. Debadutta Sharma and ICAR-CCRI Nagpur Director Dr. Dilip Ghosh.
Dr. Dilip Ghosh announced ICAR-CCRI Nagpur's provision of technology for producing energy drinks and gummy fruit from Kachai Lemon and Tamenglong Orange. He noted the introduction of value-addition techniques to improve quality, shelf life, and economic potential. Additionally, research on oil extraction from Heiribob is nearing completion under Principal Scientist Dr. S.S. Roy, with 80% of the research done.
Dr. Ghosh highlighted the storage and preservation challenges in Manipur, leading to citrus fruit wastage. He underscored the need for advanced processing methods to utilize every part of the fruit. Horticulture and Soil Conservation Department Director K. Debadutta Sharma stated that about 40% of Manipur's produce is wasted post-harvest due to inadequate facilities. The License Agreement aims to reduce wastage and enhance value addition.
Horticulture & Soil Conservation Commissioner T. Pamei expressed concerns over the declining production of Kachai Lemon and Tamenglong Orange. The agreement is expected to aid young entrepreneurs and farmers, fostering economic growth. Pamei emphasized the initiative's role in improving preservation, processing, and marketing opportunities for Manipur's GI-tagged fruits.
Source: Ukhrul Times