ICAR–Central Institute of Post–Harvest Engineering and Technology inaugurates Winter School to Propel Millet Renaissance

Ludhiana, December 1, 2023: In an endeavour to drive the resurgence of millet cultivation, processing and utilization, the ICAR–Central Institute of Post–Harvest Engineering and Technology (ICAR-CIPHET) Ludhiana commenced a 21-day winter school on "Igniting the Millet Renaissance." 

The program, scheduled from 1st to 21st December 2023, aims to explore innovative post-harvest engineering and technology solutions, thereby enhancing nutritional security, minimizing losses, and boosting profitability in millet farming. Dedicated to fostering a platform for knowledge exchange, the winter school will host distinguished researchers, offering insights into cutting-edge methodologies for storage, processing, and value addition in millet cultivation. The curriculum spans scientific nuances, technological advancements, commercial applications, and current research and development trends pertinent to millet processing. Attracting twenty-five participants, primarily assistant professors and above from various regions in Punjab and other states, the inaugural ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of Dr. K Alagusunadaram, former DDG of Agricultural Engineering at ICAR New Delhi, who joined virtually as the chief guest. Dr. Alagusunadaram, currently serving as the MD & CEO of Tamil Nadu Food Processing and Agri Export Promotion Corporation, shared words of wisdom in post-harvest millet processing, emphasizing the prospects that Punjab holds in this domain and highlighting the necessity for mechanization advancements. 

Gracing the event as the guest of honor, Dr. Manjeet Singh, Dean of the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology at PAU Ludhiana, underscored the significance of integrating millets into the daily diet, acknowledging their historical importance. 

Dr. Nachiket Kotwaliwale, Director of ICAR-CIPHET Ludhiana, shed light on the institute's state-of-the-art processing facilities available for millet processing. He also highlighted the potential of millets with a low glycemic index (GI) in managing diabetes among the Indian population. Dr. Manju Bala, the Course Director and Head (Act.) FG&OP Division, outlined the comprehensive course content slated for the 21-day program, while Dr. Swati Sethi and Dr. Pankaj Kumar, course coordinators, efficiently coordinated the inaugural event.