Food Processing Training of Mukti Generating Income for the SHGs

Mukti has made an indelible mark in employment generation in the food processing sector through its extensive training program named SWAS (Swabalamban Accelerator in Sundarban). This training program is being organized by Mukti and SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) under the SWAS Initiative for the benefit of Self Help Groups (SHGs) who are interested in food processing.

From 31^st January to 4^th February 2022, 64 MCDF (Mukti Community Development Fund) members of Herembogopalpur Branch under Patharpratima block participated in the training program.

The training is provided under the supervision of Ms. Priyanka Gayen, Ms. Nandini Maity and Ms. Mamani Das. Once, they all are the trainees of Mukti. After receiving training from Mukti, they are now training many more.

The training program consists of the processing of locally grown agro-commodities; Jam, jelly, tomato sauce, chili sauce and ketchup processing; Ingredients and formulations for papad, bori (dried lentil dumplings) and chips making; processing and preparation of variety pickles- chili, garlic, eggplant, mixed vegetables: Packing, labeling, branding and marketing requirements; hygiene, nutrition standards requirements and requisite skills for creating linkages with livelihoods opportunities. Every day their class starts from 11 am to 4 pm.

After the training Mukti has provided them simple ingredients for making pickles like species, oil, vegetables of any choice and pickle packing bottles or containers and other ingredients for making jams etc.

As of now, they will try to sell these products by forming groups in nearby villages. Meanwhile, Mukti is trying to arrange a market for their produce.

The program includes strengthening financial and livelihood security services and empowering rural populations.