Ludhiana, October 11, 2022: The fervent confluence of farmers, rural women, self-help groups, food industry, potential entrepreneurs, start-ups and visitors from Ludhiana and other parts of the state marked the beginning of the Food Industry and Craft Mela, at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) campus, Ludhiana, today. The event was inaugurated by Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of PAU while Mr. Davinder Kumar, Assistant General Manager, NABARD, was the Guest of Honour.

Organized by the Directorate of Extension Education, the mela attracted hordes of viewers to stalls showcasing handicrafts, Diwali gifts, agro-processing, solar appliances, etc. The food court, game zone and various competitions also evoked an unprecedented response. Delectable homemade and branded food items, ornate handicrafts, fine bed linen, designer clothing, intricate jewellery, cosmetics, tasteful home décor, etc., remained the cynosure of all eyes.

About 150 stalls were put up by the various departments of PAU, entrepreneurs, self-help groups, farmer producer organizations, food industry, etc. The Department of Food and Nutrition held diet counseling sessions and dished out delish confectionery items for food connoisseurs. A sizable number of customers flocked to buy pickles, tomato products, multigrain flour, fruit juices, beverages, etc. prepared by its students.

Honey, chocolates, breads, muffins, cakes, pickles, chutneys, fruit juices, beverages and Diwali gifts were very popular with the visitors. Traditional food items like golgappas, jalebis and other sweets drew a large crowd.

Other departments associated with food processing, nutrition, apparels, beekeeping and mushroom production, etc., were also actively engaged in the Mela. Not only the products were exhibited, but different PAU varieties and techniques used in the manufacturing process were also displayed. The varsity accomplishments were covered under one umbrella.

Perceiving the mela as an intermediary between the producer and the consumer, the Chief Guest, Dr S. S. Gosal, said it would serve to energize the food processing sector. “This unique setting would facilitate aspiring entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and farmers to exhibit and sell their wares as well as gain exposure to cutting-edge food processing technologies,” he opined.

Dr Gosal revealed that Punjab ranks very high in food productivity but deficient storage facilities sometimes cause food glut. Food processing can tackle this by increasing the shelf-life of an eatable that can be consumed during the lean period. He cited several examples of produce that can be processed with the help of technology available at the varsity to increase their longevity.

The Guest of Honour, Mr. Davinder Kumar, appreciated the initiative of bringing industry and producer to a common meeting ground so that both the parties can benefit. To realize the true potential of the state, he said, start-ups in agro-processing are needed expanding the scope of absorbing man-power, thus, beating the problem of unemployment. Reflecting on calamities like Covid and geo-political conflicts like Ukraine-Russia war, he underscored the imperfect supply chains where food processing can act as a buffer.  

Providing the specifics in his welcome address, Dr Ashok Kumar, Director of Extension Education, said, “Food processing aims at the best utilization of produce. Today’s event provides a platform to the industries to promote their goods, while the students can also garner some practical experience through an interface with the industry.” He dilated upon the units of the university like Skill Development Centre and Food Industry Business Incubation Centre that offer advanced trainings in niche areas of food processing.

Dr Manav Indra Singh Gill, Dean, College of Horticulture and Forestry, proposed the vote of thanks and equated the event to an apt opportunity for students to learn new things. Dr T.S. Riar, Additional Director of Communication, coordinated the programme and urged the students to become job providers rather than just job seekers.

Later in the evening, the Chief Guest awarded the prizes to winners of various competitions at the prize distribution function. On the occasion, officers of the university, faculty and students of PAU were present.