The Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai today inaugurated 2 Model Hi-Tech Walnut Processing Units (WPUs) at Sogam and Zirhama in Kupwara district in presence of galaxy of Officers, DDC Member, BDC chairperson and local farmers.
Addressing the function at Sogam, the Vice Chancellor (VC), said that it was a big breakthrough in the process of One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.He said Kupwara district has already been designated as Walnut Producing District and establishment of Walnut Processing Units is a step forward to achieve the goal.
The VC said that both Units comprising Walnut Dehuller cum Washer, Solar Tunnel Dryer, Cracking, Grading and Vacuum packing to ensure its value addition. He asked the concerned officers and unit holders to make attractive labeling of their units in consultation with SKUAST-K.
Prof. Ganai urged the farmers and Walnut growers to come forward and take advantage of these hi- tech walnut processing units. He asked farmers to contact SKUAST-K, KVK and Horticulture departments to get scientific know-how regarding establishing Walnut nurseries and plantation of Walnut orchards.
He asked farmers to learn more about how they can get maximum benefits from the minimum available land.The VC said that these facilities will increase the value addition of the Walnut and decrease the labour cost of the product.
He also expressed his gratitude to the District Administration Kupwara for its better support to the SKUAST-K and KVK.The DDC Member, Nasir Ahmad Lone, Director Extension SKUAST-K and other concerned officers and scientists also spoke on the occasion.
Among others, Head Agriculture College Wadoora, Prof. Rehana; SDM Lolab, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat; CAO Ghulam Mohammad; Various scientists, KVK Officers were present at the occasion besides, a large number of farmers.