Training-cum-Workshop on Multi-Millet Dehusking Machine at HRED RuTAG IIT Roorkee

Roorkee, February 25, 2025: Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG) IIT Roorkee successfully conducted a Training-cum-Workshop on the Multi-Millet Dehusking Machine, aimed at promoting efficient millet processing techniques.

The event was attended by several NGOs such as Parvatiya Jan Siksha Evam Vikash Sangthan NGO, Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal Youth and Rural Development Centre NGO, Chamoli, Uttarakhand, Bhilangna Valley Producer Co. Ltd (FPO), Uttarakhand, Balaji Sewa Sansthan NGO, Dehradun farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts.
 
The workshop focused on demonstrating the working principles, operational procedures, and maintenance aspects of the innovative Multi-Millet Dehusking Machine, developed to enhance the efficiency of dehusking various millet grains such as finger millet (ragi), foxtail millet (kagni), barnyard millet (samwa) and kodo millet. The machine is designed to reduce grain breakage and improve processing quality, making it a valuable asset for small-scale millet processors and rural entrepreneurs.
 
Prof. Sunil Kumar Singal, Principal Investigator, RuTAG IIT Roorkee, welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance of millet processing in ensuring food security and nutrition. He emphasized the importance of promoting millet-based technologies to support sustainable agricultural practices. Prof. Sonal K. Thengane discussed the benefits of RuTAG-developed technologies, which help solve major challenges in rural farming. He highlighted innovations like the solar-powered Bageshwari Wool Charkha, mechanized roller for felt-making, air-cooled vegetable vending cart, pico-hydro power-based cold storage, and small-scale wool processing unit. These tools improve productivity, reduce labour, and enhance quality. Prof. Thengane also emphasized how these technologies benefit farmers and artisans, boosting food security and empowering rural communities.
 
Participants appreciated the interactive nature of the workshop, expressing enthusiasm about implementing the technology in their respective fields. A special session was dedicated to addressing queries and challenges faced by millet growers and processors, fostering a collaborative approach toward technological advancements in the sector.
 
Talking about the event, Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, said, "I am extremely proud of the initiative taken by RuTAG IIT Roorkee. The Training-cum-Workshop on the Multi-Millet Dehusking Machine is a significant step in our commitment to advancing rural technologies and sustainable agricultural practices. By improving millet processing techniques, we are not only enhancing food security and nutritional outcomes but also empowering rural entrepreneurs and farmers. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to everyone involved in this event, and I look forward to the positive impact these innovations will have on our communities."

The event concluded with the remarks by Prof. S K Prajapati, Head HRED, expressing gratitude to all attendees and stakeholders for their support and active participation. The success of this workshop underscores RuTAG IIT Roorkee’s commitment to promoting rural technologies that enhance livelihood opportunities and agricultural sustainability.