NABARD & NIRCA Launch Training for Chilli, Turmeric Farmers on Post-Harvest Tech

Why in News?

The initiative was officially announced on June 25, 2025, during a special interaction program held at the NIRCA campus in Rajamahendravaram. During the event, officials from NABARD and NIRCA highlighted how important it is for farmers to use scientific methods for handling and storing turmeric and chilli. They explained that proper post-harvest care can help reduce losses, avoid contamination, and improve the quality and market value of these crops—ultimately helping farmers earn more.

Introduction

To help farmers make more money and reduce crop wastage, NABARD and ICAR-NIRCA have come together to launch a special training program in East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh. This program is meant for individual farmers and Farmers’ Producer Organisations (FPOs) who grow turmeric and chilli, two of the region’s most important spice crops. The training will teach them how to handle, store, and process their crops better after harvest, using modern and scientific techniques. The goal is to improve crop quality, reduce losses, and help farmers earn higher profits by adding more value to their produce.

Objectives of the Training

• The training program aims to help farmers learn scientific ways to handle their crops after harvest, so they lose less produce due to issues like moisture and microbial damage.
• By improving the way chilli and turmeric are processed and stored, the farmers can sell better-quality products that are more appealing in both Indian and international markets.
• The program also supports Farmers’ Producer Organisations (FPOs) by teaching them value addition techniques—like drying, grading, and packaging—so they can earn more and become more competitive.

Key Components of the Initiative

• The training includes hands-on sessions where farmers and FPO staff learn important skills like how to properly dry, grade, store, and package turmeric and chilli to maintain quality.
• It also helps them understand how to ensure their produce meets quality standards and certifications, which can fetch better prices.
• New and improved machines for drying and preventing contamination are being introduced to make the process easier and more efficient.
• The sessions are being led by experts, including NIRCA Director Dr. M. Sheshu Madhav and officials from NABARD, making the training interactive and practical for the participants.

Static and Factual Highlights

• NABARD:
  • Apex development financial institution focusing on rural development.
• NIRCA (ICAR):
  • Specialized research institute under Indian Council of Agricultural Research for commercial crops.
• Location of Training:
  • NIRCA campus, Rajamahendravaram, Andhra Pradesh.
• Date:
  • June 25, 2025.

Significance of the Initiative

• It helps farmers cut down losses after harvesting and protects their crops from getting spoiled or contaminated.
• It supports better links between farmers and markets, so they can earn more from their produce.
• It motivates farmers to use modern, scientific methods and technology to handle their crops after harvest.
• It boosts the role of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) by helping them grow as strong players in agriculture and rural business.