Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) organised a two-day training programme on sugarcane processing and value addition in jaggery products, officials said, Tribune reported.
The programme was conducted by the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations – Technology Business Incubators (NIDHI-TBI). Startups supported by PAU participated in the programme to explore business opportunities in sugarcane and jaggery-based products.
Officials said the training familiarised participants with the entire production process, including raw material selection, juice extraction, clarification, concentration, moulding and preparation of various jaggery products. Special attention was given to hygienic production practices, product standardisation, quality checks, packaging and storage so that products can be marketed with a longer shelf life.
The technical sessions were conducted under the guidance of Baljit Singh, head of the Department of Food Science and Technology. Experts explained methods to maintain product quality, improve texture and taste, control moisture levels and follow food safety practices required for commercial production.
Another session was led by Tarsem Mittal, head of Processing and Food Engineering (PFE), along with his team. The session focused on modern packaging methods for jaggery and related products. Participants were informed about suitable packaging materials, sealing methods, labelling rules and ways to extend shelf life while maintaining quality.
As part of the programme, trainees also visited PAU’s Agro-Processing Centre, where they observed jaggery processing and related technologies in an operational production unit.
Sachdev, co-principal investigator of NIDHI-TBI, encouraged trainees to work on new product ideas, attractive packaging and brand building to reach niche markets. She also stressed the need to maintain quality standards and follow regulations to build consumer trust and ensure long-term business growth.
Participants also attended interactive sessions on cost management, licensing procedures and identifying suitable marketing channels for their products.
