The Division of Food Science and Postharvest Technology (FS&PHT) organized an ICAR sponsored  21-day Winter School on "Recent Advances in Food Processing Technologies for Agri-Horti Produce" successfully concluded on 5th February 2025. The program was inaugurated on 16th January 2025 in the presence of esteemed Director Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao and a training manual for the participants was also released on the same day. The program, aimed to equip scientists and faculty members with the latest knowledge and techniques in food processing, with a focus on agricultural and horticultural produce.

The Winter School witnessed active participation from 19 participants representing diverse backgrounds representing 10 states, including researchers and academicians. The curriculum encompassed a wide range of topics, including:

• Novel food processing techniques: Participants learned about cutting-edge technologies such as supercritical fluid extrusion, nanocellulose extraction, and microwave-assisted processing, ozonation, irrardiation, UV processing etc. which offer advantages in terms of food safety, quality, and nutritional value.
• Value addition to agri-horti produce: The program emphasized strategies for converting raw agricultural and horticultural produce into value-added products, thereby enhancing their marketability and profitability.
• Food safety and quality management: Participants gained insights into the importance of food safety and quality standards, as well as the implementation of effective quality management systems in food processing.
• Sustainable food processing: The Winter School highlighted the significance of sustainable practices in food processing, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and environmental conservation.

The program featured lectures, hands-on training sessions, and interactive discussions led by eminent experts in the field of food processing. Participants also had the opportunity to visit industries such as Swasth Ahaar Pvt Ltd in Rohtak, FHEL Pvt Ltd in Sonipat and Mother Dairy Fruits and Vegetables Pvt Ltd in Mongolpuri, gaining practical exposure to real-world applications of food processing technologies.

The valedictory session of the Winter School was graced by Dr. S.K. Singh, DDG (Horticulture Science) who emphasized the critical role of food processing in addressing food security challenges and promoting economic growth. Dr. Seema Jaggi, ADG (HRD, Education Division) also lauded the efforts of the organizers in conducting such a comprehensive and impactful program.

The participants expressed their satisfaction with the Winter School, highlighting the valuable knowledge and skills they acquired. They also appreciated the opportunity to network with fellow professionals and experts in the field.

The successful completion of the Winter School marks a significant step towards advancing food processing technologies and promoting value addition to agri-horti produce. The knowledge and skills gained by the participants are expected to contribute to the growth and development of the food processing sector in the country.

Training manual released on inauguration day by Dr. Ch. Srinivasa Rao, Director, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi and Dr. Dinesh Kumar, Head, Division of FS&PHT. ICAR-IARI, New Delhi

Valedictory function was graced by Dr. S.K. Singh, DDG (Horticulture Science), Dr. Seema Jaggi, ADG (HRD-Education Division),  ICAR in presence of Dr. Dinesh Kumar, Head, Division of FS&PHT, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi