Technology clinic on meat processing efficiency concludes in Medziphema

DIMAPUR — The Department of Industries & Commerce and Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation Limited, in collaboration with Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM), Medziphema, organised a two-day technology clinic on enhancing meat processing efficiency under RAMP Scheme at ICAR-NRCM, Medziphema on June 24-25.

Addressing the inaugural programme, Keneirienuo T Zatsu, Deputy Director of Industries & Commerce, outlined the RAMP project's goals and initiatives, emphasising its commitment to empowering MSMEs with tailored support and resources.

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The technology clinic featured four modules: meat processing basics, patty and sausage/nugget formulation & processing, and preservation & storage of processed products.

Dr. Girish Patil S, Director of ICAR-NRCM, led the first session, covering meat types, hygienic handling practices, and the business potential of value-added meat processing, highlighting Nagaland's significant meat market as a key opportunity.

Senior Scientist at ICAR-NRCM, Dr. Sapunii S Hanah, assisted by Vivi Kweho, led the other three sessions, providing hands-on training on meat processing equipment and guiding participants through sausage, nugget, and patty production, including formulation, mixing, cooking, and techniques for consistency, safety, and shelf life extension.

Along with the clinic, an awareness and on-spot registration for FSSAI and UDYAM was done by the RAMP team from the Directorate of Industries and Commerce. The technology clinic drew 27 MSMEs in each clinic from across multiple districts including Kohima, Dimapur, Chümoukedima, Mokokchung, Mon and Wokha.

The two-day technology clinic concluded with a valedictory programme with Dr. Chirantan Chattopadhyay, former VC of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, as the chief guest, and Dr. KK Baruah, Member General Body, ICAR, New Delhi, as guest of honour.

The guests handed out the certificates to all participants, encouraging them to utilise the knowledge gained to improve local meat processing standards.

RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance) is a scheme supported by the World Bank and implemented by the Government of India.

It aims to enhance market access, credit availability, and capacity building for MSMEs. As MSMEs in Nagaland continue to grow and modernize, access to advanced machinery and technology becomes vital for sustaining their competitiveness.

Under the RAMP initiative, technology clinics are being organised to connect entrepreneurs with leading experts and technocrats, enabling them to gain the technical know-how and insights needed to upgrade their businesses.

This initiative is also instrumental in supporting the post-COVID-19 economic recovery by providing MSMEs in Nagaland with essential tools, resources, and guidance to succeed in a rapidly evolving market environment.

“This initiative signifies a pivotal advancement in promoting value addition, strengthening hygiene practices, and fostering technological innovation within Nagaland’s meat industry,” it stated.