ICAR–DCR Organizes Training Programme on Cashew Apple Based Value Addition for Rural Women
The ICAR–Directorate of Cashew Research (ICAR–DCR), Puttur, organised a training programme on “Empowering Rural Women through Cashew-Based Value Addition and Entrepreneurship” on 15 October 2026 as part of the Women Farmers’ Day celebration, in recognition of the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026.
Dr. J. Dinakara Adiga, Director, ICAR–DCR, Puttur, inaugurated the programme and addressed the participants. In his inaugural address, he highlighted the importance of empowering rural women through skill development, value addition, and entrepreneurship. He emphasized the potential of cashew apple utilization for developing value-added products, generating additional income, and creating self-employment opportunities for rural women.
Dr. Bhagya H. P., Senior Scientist, ICAR–DCR, Puttur, welcomed the participants and briefed them on the objectives and importance of the programme. She highlighted the opportunities for rural women to utilize locally available cashew resources for value addition and entrepreneurship. She also coordinated the programme.
Dr. Jyoti Nishad, Scientist (Food Technology), ICAR–DCR, Puttur, delivered a technical session on cashew apple-based food processing and value addition. She highlighted the potential for preparing products such as juice, syrup, jam, jelly, candy, cookies, and other processed products. The session emphasized hygienic processing practices, product diversification, and opportunities for establishing small-scale food processing enterprises.
The programme highlighted the significant role of women farmers in agriculture and rural development and encouraged participants to explore income-generating activities through cashew-based enterprises. The initiative reflected ICAR–DCR’s commitment to promoting women’s empowerment, sustainable utilization of cashew resources, and entrepreneurship for strengthening rural livelihoods.
A total of 35 participants attended the training programme and gained insights into cashew apple value addition, food processing, and entrepreneurship opportunities for rural women.